transition words to start a paragraph for essays

33 Transition Words and Phrases

Transitional terms give writers the opportunity to prepare readers for a new idea, connecting the previous sentence to the next one.

Many transitional words are nearly synonymous: words that broadly indicate that “this follows logically from the preceding” include accordingly, therefore, and consequently . Words that mean “in addition to” include moreover, besides, and further . Words that mean “contrary to what was just stated” include however, nevertheless , and nonetheless .

as a result : THEREFORE : CONSEQUENTLY

The executive’s flight was delayed and they accordingly arrived late.

in or by way of addition : FURTHERMORE

The mountain has many marked hiking trails; additionally, there are several unmarked trails that lead to the summit.

at a later or succeeding time : SUBSEQUENTLY, THEREAFTER

Afterward, she got a promotion.

even though : ALTHOUGH

She appeared as a guest star on the show, albeit briefly.

in spite of the fact that : even though —used when making a statement that differs from or contrasts with a statement you have just made

They are good friends, although they don't see each other very often.

in addition to what has been said : MOREOVER, FURTHERMORE

I can't go, and besides, I wouldn't go if I could.

as a result : in view of the foregoing : ACCORDINGLY

The words are often confused and are consequently misused.

in a contrasting or opposite way —used to introduce a statement that contrasts with a previous statement or presents a differing interpretation or possibility

Large objects appear to be closer. Conversely, small objects seem farther away.

used to introduce a statement that is somehow different from what has just been said

These problems are not as bad as they were. Even so, there is much more work to be done.

used as a stronger way to say "though" or "although"

I'm planning to go even though it may rain.

in addition : MOREOVER

I had some money to invest, and, further, I realized that the risk was small.

in addition to what precedes : BESIDES —used to introduce a statement that supports or adds to a previous statement

These findings seem plausible. Furthermore, several studies have confirmed them.

because of a preceding fact or premise : for this reason : THEREFORE

He was a newcomer and hence had no close friends here.

from this point on : starting now

She announced that henceforth she would be running the company.

in spite of that : on the other hand —used when you are saying something that is different from or contrasts with a previous statement

I'd like to go; however, I'd better not.

as something more : BESIDES —used for adding information to a statement

The city has the largest population in the country and in addition is a major shipping port.

all things considered : as a matter of fact —used when making a statement that adds to or strengthens a previous statement

He likes to have things his own way; indeed, he can be very stubborn.

for fear that —often used after an expression denoting fear or apprehension

He was concerned lest anyone think that he was guilty.

in addition : ALSO —often used to introduce a statement that adds to and is related to a previous statement

She is an acclaimed painter who is likewise a sculptor.

at or during the same time : in the meantime

You can set the table. Meanwhile, I'll start making dinner.

BESIDES, FURTHER : in addition to what has been said —used to introduce a statement that supports or adds to a previous statement

It probably wouldn't work. Moreover, it would be very expensive to try it.

in spite of that : HOWEVER

It was a predictable, but nevertheless funny, story.

in spite of what has just been said : NEVERTHELESS

The hike was difficult, but fun nonetheless.

without being prevented by (something) : despite—used to say that something happens or is true even though there is something that might prevent it from happening or being true

Notwithstanding their youth and inexperience, the team won the championship.

if not : or else

Finish your dinner. Otherwise, you won't get any dessert.

more correctly speaking —used to introduce a statement that corrects what you have just said

We can take the car, or rather, the van.

in spite of that —used to say that something happens or is true even though there is something that might prevent it from happening or being true

I tried again and still I failed.

by that : by that means

He signed the contract, thereby forfeiting his right to the property.

for that reason : because of that

This tablet is thin and light and therefore very convenient to carry around.

immediately after that

The committee reviewed the documents and thereupon decided to accept the proposal.

because of this or that : HENCE, CONSEQUENTLY

This detergent is highly concentrated and thus you will need to dilute it.

while on the contrary —used to make a statement that describes how two people, groups, etc., are different

Some of these species have flourished, whereas others have struggled.

NEVERTHELESS, HOWEVER —used to introduce a statement that adds something to a previous statement and usually contrasts with it in some way

It was pouring rain out, yet his clothes didn’t seem very wet.

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Transition Words & Phrases | List & Examples

Transition Words & Phrases | List & Examples

Published on May 29, 2020 by Jack Caulfield . Revised on August 23, 2023.

Transition words and phrases (also called linking words, connecting words, or transitional words) are used to link together different ideas in your text. They help the reader to follow your arguments by expressing the relationships between different sentences or parts of a sentence.

The proposed solution to the problem did not work. Therefore , we attempted a second solution. However , this solution was also unsuccessful.

For clear writing, it’s essential to understand the meaning of transition words and use them correctly.

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When and how to use transition words, types and examples of transition words, common mistakes with transition words, other interesting articles.

Transition words commonly appear at the start of a new sentence or clause (followed by a comma ), serving to express how this clause relates to the previous one.

Transition words can also appear in the middle of a clause. It’s important to place them correctly to convey the meaning you intend.

Example text with and without transition words

The text below describes all the events it needs to, but it does not use any transition words to connect them. Because of this, it’s not clear exactly how these different events are related or what point the author is making by telling us about them.

If we add some transition words at appropriate moments, the text reads more smoothly and the relationship among the events described becomes clearer.

Germany invaded Poland on September 1, 1939. Consequently , France and the United Kingdom declared war on Germany. The Soviet Union initially worked with Germany in order to partition Poland. However , Germany invaded the Soviet Union in 1941.

Don’t overuse transition words

While transition words are essential to clear writing, it’s possible to use too many of them. Consider the following example, in which the overuse of linking words slows down the text and makes it feel repetitive.

In this case the best way to fix the problem is to simplify the text so that fewer linking words are needed.

The key to using transition words effectively is striking the right balance. It is difficult to follow the logic of a text with no transition words, but a text where every sentence begins with a transition word can feel over-explained.

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There are four main types of transition word: additive, adversative, causal, and sequential. Within each category, words are divided into several more specific functions.

Remember that transition words with similar meanings are not necessarily interchangeable. It’s important to understand the meaning of all the transition words you use. If unsure, consult a dictionary to find the precise definition.

Additive transition words

Additive transition words introduce new information or examples. They can be used to expand upon, compare with, or clarify the preceding text.

Function	Example sentence	Transition words and phrases
Addition	We found that the mixture was effective. , it appeared to have additional effects we had not predicted.	indeed, furthermore, moreover, additionally, and, also, both and , not only but also , , in fact
Introduction	Several researchers have previously explored this topic. , Smith (2014) examined the effects of …	such as, like, particularly, including, as an illustration, for example, for instance, in particular, to illustrate, especially, notably
Reference	The solution showed a high degree of absorption. , it is reasonable to conclude that …	considering , regarding , in regard to , as for , concerning , the fact that , on the subject of
Similarity	It was not possible to establish a correlation between these variables. , the connection between and remains unclear …	similarly, in the same way, by the same token, in like manner, equally, likewise
Clarification	The patient suffered several side effects, increased appetite, decreased libido, and disordered sleep.	that is (to say), namely, specifically, more precisely, in other words

Adversative transition words

Adversative transition words always signal a contrast of some kind. They can be used to introduce information that disagrees or contrasts with the preceding text.

Function	Example sentence	Transition words and phrases
Conflict	The novel does deal with the theme of family. , its central theme is more broadly political …	but, however, although, though, equally, by way of contrast, while, on the other hand, (and) yet, whereas, in contrast, (when) in fact, conversely, whereas
Concession	Jones (2011) argues that the novel reflects Russian politics of the time. this is correct, other aspects of the text must also be considered.	even so, nonetheless, nevertheless, even though, on the other hand, admittedly, despite , notwithstanding , (and) still, although, , regardless (of ), (and) yet, though, granted
Dismissal	It remains unclear which of these hypotheses is correct. , it can be inferred that …	regardless, either way, whatever the case, in any/either event, in any/either case, at any rate, all the same
Emphasis	The chemical is generally thought to have corrosive properties. , several studies have supported this hypothesis.	above all, indeed, more/most importantly
Replacement	The character of Godfrey is often viewed as selfish, self-absorbed.	(or) at least, (or) rather, instead, or (perhaps) even, if not

Causal transition words

Causal transition words are used to describe cause and effect. They can be used to express purpose, consequence, and condition.

Function	Example sentence	Transition words and phrases
Consequence	Hitler failed to respond to the British ultimatum, France and the UK declared war on Germany.	therefore, because (of ), as a result (of ), for this reason, in view of , as, owing to x, due to (the fact that), since, consequently, in consequence, as a consequence, hence, thus, so (that), accordingly, so much (so) that, under the/such circumstances, if so
Condition	We qualified survey responses as positive the participant selected “agree” or “strongly agree.” , results were recorded as negative.	(even/only) if/when, on (the) condition that, in the case that, granted (that), provided/providing that, in case, in the event that, as/so long as, unless, given that, being that, inasmuch/insofar as, in that case, in (all) other cases, if so/not, otherwise
Purpose	We used accurate recording equipment our results would be as precise as possible.	to, in order to/that, for the purpose of, in the hope that, so that, to the end that, lest, with this in mind, so as to, so that, to ensure (that)

Sequential transition words

Sequential transition words indicate a sequence, whether it’s the order in which events occurred chronologically or the order you’re presenting them in your text. They can be used for signposting in academic texts.

Function	Example sentence	Transition words and phrases
Enumeration	This has historically had several consequences: , the conflict is not given the weight of other conflicts in historical narratives. , its causes are inadequately understood. , …	first, second, third…
Initiation	, I want to consider the role played by women in this period.	in the first place, initially, first of all, to begin with, at first
Continuation	, I discuss the way in which the country’s various ethnic minorities were affected by the conflict.	subsequently, previously, eventually, next, before , afterwards, after , then
Conclusion	, I consider these two themes in combination.	to conclude (with), as a final point, eventually, at last, last but not least, finally, lastly
Resumption	my main argument, it is clear that …	to return/returning to , to resume, at any rate
Summation	Patel (2015) comes to a similar conclusion. , the four studies considered here suggest a consensus that the solution is effective.	as previously stated/mentioned, in summary, as I have argued, overall, as has been mentioned, to summarize, briefly, given these points, in view of , as has been noted, in conclusion, in sum, altogether, in short

Transition words are often used incorrectly. Make sure you understand the proper usage of transition words and phrases, and remember that words with similar meanings don’t necessarily work the same way grammatically.

Misused transition words can make your writing unclear or illogical. Your audience will be easily lost if you misrepresent the connections between your sentences and ideas.

Confused use of therefore

“Therefore” and similar cause-and-effect words are used to state that something is the result of, or follows logically from, the previous. Make sure not to use these words in a way that implies illogical connections.

We asked participants to rate their satisfaction with their work from 1 to 10. Therefore , the average satisfaction among participants was 7.5.

The use of “therefore” in this example is illogical: it suggests that the result of 7.5 follows logically from the question being asked, when in fact many other results were possible. To fix this, we simply remove the word “therefore.”

We asked participants to rate their satisfaction with their work from 1 to 10. The average satisfaction among participants was 7.5.

Starting a sentence with also , and , or so

While the words “also,” “and,” and “so” are used in academic writing, they are considered too informal when used at the start of a sentence.

Also , a second round of testing was carried out.

To fix this issue, we can either move the transition word to a different point in the sentence or use a more formal alternative.

A second round of testing was also carried out.
Additionally , a second round of testing was carried out.

Transition words creating sentence fragments

Words like “although” and “because” are called subordinating conjunctions . This means that they introduce clauses which cannot stand on their own. A clause introduced by one of these words should always follow or be followed by another clause in the same sentence.

The second sentence in this example is a fragment, because it consists only of the “although” clause.

Smith (2015) argues that the period should be reassessed. Although other researchers disagree.

We can fix this in two different ways. One option is to combine the two sentences into one using a comma. The other option is to use a different transition word that does not create this problem, like “however.”

Smith (2015) argues that the period should be reassessed, although other researchers disagree.
Smith (2015) argues that the period should be reassessed. However , other researchers disagree.

And vs. as well as

Students often use the phrase “ as well as ” in place of “and,” but its usage is slightly different. Using “and” suggests that the things you’re listing are of equal importance, while “as well as” introduces additional information that is less important.

Chapter 1 discusses some background information on Woolf, as well as presenting my analysis of To the Lighthouse .

In this example, the analysis is more important than the background information. To fix this mistake, we can use “and,” or we can change the order of the sentence so that the most important information comes first. Note that we add a comma before “as well as” but not before “and.”

Chapter 1 discusses some background information on Woolf and presents my analysis of To the Lighthouse .
Chapter 1 presents my analysis of To the Lighthouse , as well as discussing some background information on Woolf.

Note that in fixed phrases like “both x and y ,” you must use “and,” not “as well as.”

Both my results as well as my interpretations are presented below.
Both my results and my interpretations are presented below.

Use of and/or

The combination of transition words “and/or” should generally be avoided in academic writing. It makes your text look messy and is usually unnecessary to your meaning.

First consider whether you really do mean “and/or” and not just “and” or “or.” If you are certain that you need both, it’s best to separate them to make your meaning as clear as possible.

Participants were asked whether they used the bus and/or the train.
Participants were asked whether they used the bus, the train, or both.

Archaic transition words

Words like “hereby,” “therewith,” and most others formed by the combination of “here,” “there,” or “where” with a preposition are typically avoided in modern academic writing. Using them makes your writing feel old-fashioned and strained and can sometimes obscure your meaning.

Poverty is best understood as a disease. Hereby , we not only see that it is hereditary, but acknowledge its devastating effects on a person’s health.

These words should usually be replaced with a more explicit phrasing expressing how the current statement relates to the preceding one.

Poverty is best understood as a disease. Understanding it as such , we not only see that it is hereditary, but also acknowledge its devastating effects on a person’s health.

Using a paraphrasing tool for clear writing

With the use of certain tools, you can make your writing clear. One of these tools is a paraphrasing tool . One thing the tool does is help your sentences make more sense. It has different modes where it checks how your text can be improved. For example, automatically adding transition words where needed.

If you want to know more about AI for academic writing, AI tools, or writing rules make sure to check out some of our other articles with explanations and examples or go directly to our tools!

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Essay Writing Guide

Transition Words For Essays

Last updated on: Dec 19, 2023

220 Best Transition Words for Essays

By: Nova A.

15 min read

Reviewed By: Jacklyn H.

Published on: Jul 9, 2019

Writing essays can be hard, and making sure your transitions are smooth is even harder.

You've probably heard that good essays need good transitions, but what are they? How do you use them in your writing? Also, your essays are assessed according to particular criteria and it is your responsibility to ensure that it is being met.

But don't worry, we are here to help. This blog will give you transition words for essays, including how to choose the right ones and where to place them for maximum impact. Essay writing is a technical process that requires much more effort than simply pouring your thoughts on paper.

If you are new to the concept of transition words and phrases, deep dive into this article in order to find out the secret to improving your essays.

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What Are Transition Words

Transition words are essential elements in essay writing that create smooth transitions between ideas.

Think of a transition as a conjunction or a joining word. It helps create strong relationships between ideas, paragraphs, or sentences and assists the readers to understand the word phrases and sentences easily.

As writers, our goal is to communicate our thoughts and ideas in the most clear and logical manner. Especially when presenting complex ideas, we must ensure that they are being conveyed in the most understandable way.

To ensure that your paper is easy to understand, you can work on the sequencing of ideas. Break down your ideas into different sentences and paragraphs then use a transition word or phrase to guide them through these ideas.

Why Should You Use Transitions

The purpose of transition words goes beyond just connectivity. They create a cohesive narrative , allowing your ideas to flow seamlessly from one point to another. These words and phrases act as signposts and indicate relationships.

These relations could include:

Cause and Effect
Comparison and Contrast
Addition and Emphasis
Sequence and Order
Illustration and Example
Concession and Contradiction
Summary and Conclusion

They form a bridge and tie sentences together, creating a logical connection. In addition to tying the entire paper together, they help demonstrate the writer’s agreement, disagreement, conclusion, or contrast.

However, keep in mind that just using or including transitional words isn’t enough to highlight relationships between ideas. The content of your paragraphs must support the relationship as well. So, you should avoid overusing them in a paper.

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Types of Transitions

Transitions in essays can be classified into different types based on the relationships they indicate between ideas. Each type serves a specific purpose in guiding readers through your arguments.

Let's explore some common types of transitions and their examples:

Additive Transitions

These transitions are used to add information or ideas. They help you expand on your points or provide additional supporting evidence. Examples:

In addition
Furthermore
Additionally
Not only... but also
Coupled with

Adversative Transitions

Adversative transitions show contrast or contradiction between ideas. They are used to present opposing viewpoints or highlight differences. Examples:

Nevertheless
On the other hand
In contrast

Causal Transitions

Causal transitions explain cause-and-effect relationships. They help you establish the reasons behind certain outcomes or actions. Examples:

As a result
Consequently
Resulting in
For this reason

Sequential Transitions

Sequential transitions indicate the order or sequence of events or ideas. They help you present your thoughts in a logical and organized manner. Examples:

Subsequently
In the meantime
Simultaneously

Comparative Transitions

Comparative transitions highlight similarities or comparisons between ideas. They help you draw connections and illustrate relationships. Here are some transition words for essays examples:

In the same way
Compared to
In comparison
Correspondingly
By the same token
Equally important
Analogous to

Getting started on your essay? Check out this insightful read on essay writing to make sure you ace it!

List of Good Transition Words for Essays

As mentioned above, there are different categories of transitions that serve a unique purpose. Understanding these different types will help you pick the most suitable word or phrase to communicate your message.

Here we have categorized the best transition words for essays so you can use them appropriately!

Transition Words for Argumentative Essays

In argumentative essays , the effective use of transition words is essential for presenting a well-structured and coherent argument.

To begin with	To show	By contrast	One alternative is
Chiefly	Mainly	To put it more simply	At the same time
On the contrary	Even if ‘A’ is true	Afterall	With this in mind
All things considered	As a result	To clarify	Generally speaking
Another way to view this	That is to say	Yet another	Another possibility is

Transition Words for Compare and Contrast Essays

In compare and contrast essays , transition words play a crucial role in highlighting the similarities and differences between the subjects being compared.

Here are a few transition words that are particularly useful in compare and contrast essays:

Despite	In contrast	Nevertheless	On the contrary
On the other hand	Otherwise	As an illustration	That is
Conversely	In spite of	Similarly	At the same time
Likewise	Still	In a similar fashion	Equally
Also	Yet	But	Simultaneously

Transition Words for Cause and Effect Essays

In cause and effect essays , transition words help illustrate the relationships between causes and their corresponding effects.

Here are a few transition words that are particularly useful in cause-and-effect essays:

As a result	Under those circumstances	Thus	In effect
For this reason	Thereupon	Henceforth	Accordingly
Consequently	Because	Since	Otherwise
Due to	So	As a	Hence
In order to	If…then	For	Afterward

Transition Words for Different Parts of Essays

Transition words are valuable tools that can be used throughout different parts of an essay to create a smooth and coherent flow. By understanding the appropriate transition words for each section, you can logically connect your ideas.

Introduction Transition Words for Essays

Introductions are one of the most impactful parts of the essay. It's important that it connects logically with the rest of the essay. To do this, you can utilize different transition words for essays to start. Here are some starting transition words for essays:

Generally speaking	In the first place	To begin with	To be sure
Assuredly	Earlier	First of all	The next step
As you can see	For now	In time	Once and for all
First... second... third...	To put it differently	Foundationally	In addition
Basically	Furthermore	Besides	In the meantime

Transition Words for Essays Body Paragraph

In an essay, body paragraphs play a crucial role in presenting and developing your ideas. To ensure a logical flow within each body paragraph, the strategic use of transition words is essential.

Here are lists of transitions for essays for different body paragraphs:

Transition Words for Essays for First Body Paragraph

Here is a list of transition words that you can use for the first body paragraph of an essay:

Firstly	To start off	Primarily	Another important factor is
To begin with	In the beginning	Above all	It is worth mentioning
Initially	At the outset	Most importantly	An additional aspect to consider is
In the first place	For a start	Essential to note	What's more
First and foremost	As a first step	One key point is	Furthermore

Transition Words for Essays Second Body Paragraph

Here is a list of transition words for the second body paragraph of an essay:

Additionally	Likewise	Furthermore, it is essential to consider	Correspondingly
Moreover	Similarly	Moreover, it should be noted that	In the same way
Furthermore	Equally important	In a similar vein	As well as
In addition to	Another key point is	Alongside this	Similarly, it can be argued that
Besides	Not only... but also	Coupled with this	Furthermore, evidence suggests

Transition Words for Essays Third Body Paragraph

Another significant point is	Likewise	Moreover, it should be highlighted that
Notably	Correspondingly	Furthermore, it is crucial to consider
Besides	Equally important	Alongside this
Furthermore, it is important to note	Furthermore, evidence supports	In a similar fashion
Similarly	Additionally, research shows	Lastly, it is worth noting

Transition Words for Essays Last Body Paragraph

In light of this	Coupled with this insight	Furthermore, it is imperative to address	As an extension of this
Building upon that	Adding to the discussion	Another notable factor is	Digging deeper into the topic
Moreover, it is crucial to mention	Expanding on this idea	In a related vein	In a similar line of thought
In a similar fashion	Taking a step further	Similarly, it is worth considering	Elaborating on this concept
Not to mention	Additionally, it is important to highlight	In the same breath	Correspondingly, it is crucial to explore

Transition Words for Essays Conclusion

Here is a list of ending transition words for essays:

All things considered	Given these points	In summary	To summarize
In short	Briefly	After all	That is to say
Finally	All in all	In the final analysis	As previously stated
In essence	Ultimately	To sum up	On the whole
By and large	Overall	Everything considered	Taking everything into account

Do’s and Don’ts of Using Essay Transitions

When it comes to using transitions in your essay, there are certain do's and don'ts that can help you effectively enhance the flow of your writing. Here are some key guidelines to keep in mind:

Add transitions only when introducing new ideas.
Go through the paper to make sure they make sense.
Start by creating an outline, so you know what ideas to share and how.
Use different transitions for each idea.
Don’t overuse them.
Don’t keep adding transitions in the same paragraph.
Don’t completely rely on transitions to signal relationships.
Don’t incorporate it into your content without understanding its usage.

By now, you have probably understood how transition words can save you from disjointed and directionless paragraphs. They are the missing piece that indicates how ideas are related to one another. You can also generate more essays with our AI powered essay writer to learn the art of transitioning smoothly from one paragraph to another.

If you are still unable to distinguish transitions to open or conclude your essays, don’t be upset - these things require time and practice.

If you are looking for the perfect essay-writing service, get in touch with the expert writers at 5StarEssays.com. We will include the right transitions according to the type of paper, ensuring a coherent flow of ideas.

Just say ‘ write my essay ’ now and let our essay writer create quality content at the most pocket-friendly rates available.

As a Digital Content Strategist, Nova Allison has eight years of experience in writing both technical and scientific content. With a focus on developing online content plans that engage audiences, Nova strives to write pieces that are not only informative but captivating as well.

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Transition Words for Essays - An Ultimate List

12 min read

Published on: Jan 1, 2021

Last updated on: Jan 30, 2024

What are Transition Words?

Transition words are linking words used to connect sentences and ideas in the content. They help the audience move from one idea to another, building a coherent relationship within the document.

When writing an essay , it is essential to make sure that the information provided is readable and understandable by the readers. For this purpose, explicit language, transition words, and phrases are used.

Moreover, these words set a base for the idea that is going to be discussed next.

Transition words can either make or break the entire essay. It is mandatory to keep in view that not every sentence in your essay needs a transitional phrase.

Types of Transitions

Generally, there are three types of transitions that are used while drafting a piece of document. Depending on the length, complexity, and kind of text, transitions can take the following form:

Transition Between Sections - When your document is lengthy, transition paragraphs are used to summarize a particular section for the readers. In addition to this, it also links the information that is to be shared next.

For example:

"In the following section..." "Moving on to..." "Now, let's explore..." "Turning our attention to..." "To delve deeper, we will now examine..."

Transition Between Paragraphs - The transition between paragraphs is when you logically connect the two paragraphs. This connection summarizes the paragraphâs primary concern and links it to the next idea of the other paragraph.

"Furthermore..." "On the other hand..." "Similarly..." "In contrast..." "Moreover..." "Additionally..." "In addition to..." "Conversely..." "Likewise..." "In a similar vein...

Transition Within Paragraphs - They act as cues for the readers to prepare them for what is coming next. They are usually single words or small phrases.

"For instance..." "In particular..." "To illustrate..." "Additionally..." "Moreover..." "Furthermore..." "On the contrary..." "However..." "In contrast..." "In other words..."

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Types of Transition Words

Here's a table showcasing different types of transition words and their corresponding functions:


	Furthermore, Moreover, Additionally, In addition to	Adds information or ideas
	However, On the other hand, In contrast, Conversely	Shows a difference or contradiction
	Similarly, Likewise, In the same way, Just as	Draws a parallel or similarity between ideas
	Consequently, Therefore, As a result, Thus	Indicates a cause-and-effect relationship
	Firstly, Next, Meanwhile, Subsequently	Orders ideas chronologically or in a sequence
	For example, For instance, To illustrate, Specifically	Provides specific examples or illustrations
	Indeed, Certainly, Without a doubt, Undoubtedly	Highlights or reinforces a particular point or idea
	In conclusion, Overall, To summarize, All in all	Summarizes the main points or ideas
	Namely, That is to say, In other words, Specifically	Provides further clarification or explanation
	Consequently, Accordingly, Hence, Thus	Shows the outcome or result of a previous statement or action

Transition Words For Different Types of Essays

Transitional words depend on the relationship you want to convey to the audience about the ideas and paragraphs. Below is a list of words and phrases that can be used to link different sentences, paragraphs, and sections.

Identify which transition expression you want to share for your logical relationship.

Transition Words for Argumentative Essay

In the same way
Equally important
Furthermore
Comparatively
Additionally
In addition
Not only...but also

Transition Words for Compare and Contrast Essay

In contrast
Different from
On the contrary
In spite of

Transition Words for Informative Essay

Provided that
With this in mind
For the purpose of
In the hope that
In order to
With this intention

Transition Words for College Essays

In other words
By all means
To demonstrate
As in illustration
To put it another way

Transition Words for Cause and Effect Essay

As a result
For this reason
Because the
Under those circumstances
Accordingly
Consequently

Transition Words for Expository Essay

Not long after that
Specifically
To begin with
Without doubt
Undoubtedly
Due to circumstances
In similar fashion

Transition Words for Different Parts of Essay

Here's a table listing transition words for different parts of an essay:


Starting a Paragraph	Firstly, To begin with, Initially, In the first place
First Body Paragraph	Firstly, To start, To begin with, Initially
Second Body Paragraph	Secondly, Next, Additionally, Furthermore
Third Body Paragraph	Moreover, Furthermore, In addition, Another key point
Last Body Paragraph	Lastly, Overall, Ultimately, As a final point
	In conclusion, To summarize, Overall, Wrapping it up

How Transitions work

Transitions work by creating a bridge between ideas, sentences, paragraphs, or sections in your essay. They help to establish logical connections and guide the reader through the flow of your writing.

Here's how transitions work:

Coherence : Transitions create smooth connections between ideas, ensuring a coherent flow in your writing.
Signal Relationships: Transitions clarify how ideas are related, such as cause and effect, comparison, contrast, or sequence.
Guide the Reader: It acts as signpost, guiding readers through your essay and indicating the direction of your thoughts.
Enhance Clarity: Transitions improve clarity by organizing ideas and helping readers understand logical progression.
Improve Flow: It ensures a seamless flow between sentences, paragraphs, and sections, preventing choppiness.
Emphasize Key Points: Transitions can be used strategically to highlight important ideas and make them more impactful.

Let's consider an example:

"The use of renewable energy sources is crucial for combating climate change. Solar power is one such renewable energy source. It harnesses the energy from the sun and converts it into electricity. Wind power is another significant renewable energy source. It utilizes wind turbines to generate electricity. Both solar and wind power have numerous environmental benefits."

In the above example, transitions like " one such source " connect the idea of solar power to renewable energy sources. " Similarly " then introduces the concept of wind power, creating a logical progression. These transitions help readers follow the flow of ideas and understand the relationships between different energy sources.

Tips to Use Transition Words in your Essay

Here are some tips to effectively use transition words in your essay:

Understand the Purpose: Familiarize yourself with the different types and functions of transition words, phrases, or sentences. Recognize how they connect ideas, provide structure, and indicate relationships between different parts of your essay.
Plan your Essay Structure: Before you start writing, outline the main sections, paragraphs, and points you want to cover. Consider where transition words can be used to improve the flow and coherence of your essay.
Use Transition Words Appropriately: Ensure that the transition word you choose accurately reflects the relationship between ideas. Don't force a transition where it doesn't fit naturally.
Vary Transition Words: Avoid repetitive or excessive use of the same transition word throughout your essay. Use a variety of transition words to maintain reader interest and enhance overall readability.
Pay Attention to Placement: Place transition words at the beginning, middle, or end of sentences, depending on the desired effect. Consider the logical flow of your ideas and choose the appropriate placement for each transition word.
Use Transitional Phrases: Instead of using single transition words, consider incorporating transitional phrases or clauses. These can provide more context and clarity, strengthening the connection between ideas.
Revise and Edit: After completing your essay, review it for the effectiveness and smoothness of transitions. Ensure that they serve their purpose in guiding the reader and enhancing the overall coherence of your writing.
Seek Feedback: Share your essay with others and ask for feedback, specifically on the use of transition words. Others' perspectives can help you identify any areas that need improvement or where transitions could be strengthened.

To sum it up! While mastering transition words may require time and practice, it is a skill well worth developing. These words are crucial for creating coherence and flow in your essays. Throughout this blog, we have explored various transition words and phrases that can greatly enhance your writing.

Remember, practice makes perfect, so don't hesitate to apply these newfound skills in your future essays. You can utilize an AI essay writer to enhance and refine your writing skills.

If you still need assistance or have further inquiries, our team at CollegeEssay.org is available to provide legit essay writing service .

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Barbara is a highly educated and qualified author with a Ph.D. in public health from an Ivy League university. She has spent a significant amount of time working in the medical field, conducting a thorough study on a variety of health issues. Her work has been published in several major publications.

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Complete List of Transition Words

100 Words and Phrases to Use Between Paragraphs

Viorika Prikhodko / E+ / Getty Images

Writing Essays
Writing Research Papers
English Grammar
M.Ed., Education Administration, University of Georgia
B.A., History, Armstrong State University

Transition words and phrases can help your paper move along, smoothly gliding from one topic to the next. As a result, they come in very handy as you're writing.

Transitions, which connect one idea to the next, may seem challenging at first, but they get easier once you consider the many possible methods for linking paragraphs together—even if they seem to be unrelated.

If you have trouble thinking of a way to connect your paragraphs, consider a few of these 100 top transitions as inspiration. The type of transition words or phrases you use depends on the category of transition you need, as explained below.

Additive Transitions

Probably the most common type, additive transitions are those you use when you want to show that the current point is an addition to the previous one, according to Edusson, a website that provides students with essay-writing tips and advice . Put another way, additive transitions signal to the reader that you are adding to an idea or that your ideas are similar. Follow each transition word or phrase with a comma:

In the first place
Furthermore
Alternatively
As well (as this)
What is more
In addition (to this)
On the other hand
Either (neither)
As a matter of fact
Besides (this)
To say nothing of
Additionally
Not to mention (this)
Not only (this) but also (that) as well
In all honesty
To tell the truth

Example Additive Transition

An example of additive transitions used in a sentence would be:

" In the first place , no 'burning' in the sense of combustion, as in the burning of wood, occurs in a volcano; moreover , volcanoes are not necessarily mountains; furthermore , the activity takes place not always at the summit but more commonly on the sides or flanks..." – Fred Bullard, "Volcanoes in History, in Theory, in Eruption"

In this example and others in this piece, the transition words or phrases are printed in italics to make them easier to find as you peruse the passages.

Adversative Transitions

Adversative transitions are used to signal conflict, contradiction, concession, and dismissal, according to Michigan State University. Examples include:

In contrast
But even so
Nevertheless
Nonetheless
(And) still
In either case
(Or) at least
Whichever happens
Whatever happens
In either event

Example Adversative Transition

An example of an adversative transition phrase used in a sentence would be:

" On the other hand, professor Smith completely disagreed with the author's argument."

Causal Transitions

Causal transitions—also called cause-and-effect transitions—show how certain circumstances or events were caused by other factors. Using them helps readers follow the logic of arguments and clauses in your paper. Examples include:

Accordingly
As a result
Consequently
For this reason
Granting (that)
On the condition (that)
In the event that
As a result (of this)
Because (of this)
As a consequence
In consequence
So much (so) that
For the purpose of
With this intention
With this in mind
Under those circumstances
That being the case

Example Causal Transition

An example of a causal transition used in a sentence would be:

"The study of human chromosomes is in its infancy, and so it has only recently become possible to study the effect of environmental factors upon them." –Rachel Carson, "Silent Spring"

Sequential Transitions

Sequential transitions express a numerical sequence, continuation, conclusion , digression , resumption, or summation. Here are some examples:

In the (first, second, third, etc.) place
To begin with
To start with
Subsequently
To conclude with
As a final point
Last but not least
To change the topic
Incidentally
To get back to the point
As was previously stated

Example Sequential Transition

An example of a sequential transition would be:

"We should teach that words are not the things to which they refer. We should teach that words are best understood as convenient tools for handling reality... Finally , we should teach widely that new words can and should be invented if the need arises." –Karol Janicki, "Language Misconceived"

How to Practice Using Transition Words

In sum , use transition words and phrases judiciously to keep your paper moving, hold your readers' attention, and retain your audience until the final word. In practice, it's a good idea to rewrite some of the introductory sentences at the beginning and the transition statements at the end of every paragraph once you have completed the first draft of your paper. Practice with some of the words on this list and decide which flows best.

Edusson. " Common Transitions to Use in Cause and Effect Essay ."

Academic Help. " Common Transitions Words and Phrases ."

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Boost Your English Writing with These Top Transition Words to Start a Paragraph

By: Author ESLBUZZ

Posted on Last updated: March 22, 2024

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If you’re learning English or trying to improve your writing skills, understanding how to use transition words is essential. Transition words can help you to write more clearly and effectively, making it easier for your reader to follow your ideas. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about transition words to start a paragraph, from their definition to their usage, and we’ll provide plenty of examples to help you master this important writing skill.

Transition Words to Start a Paragraph

Understanding Transition Words

What are transition words.

Transition words are words or phrases that indicate the relationship between sentences or ideas. They help readers follow your writing, making it more coherent and organized. Transition words can be used to show a contrast, addition, conclusion, comparison, time, and many other relationships between ideas.

Why are Transition Words Important?

Transition words are important because they help your writing flow smoothly. They make it easier for the reader to understand your ideas and follow your argument. Without transition words, your writing can sound choppy and disjointed, making it difficult to read and understand.

Examples of Transition Words

Here are some examples of transition words you can use to start a new paragraph:


Addition	Additionally, Furthermore, Moreover, In addition, Besides
Contrast	However, Nevertheless, On the other hand, In contrast, Conversely
Conclusion	In conclusion, To sum up, Therefore, Thus, Hence
Comparison	Similarly, Likewise, In the same way, Just as, Compared to
Time	Meanwhile, Afterwards, Next, Then, Before

Here are some example sentences that use transition words:

Additionally, I would like to point out that…
However, there are some drawbacks to this approach.
In conclusion, it is clear that…
Similarly, we can see that…
Meanwhile, let’s take a closer look at…

Importance of Transition Words in Writing

Purpose of transition words.

The purpose of transition words is to guide the reader through your writing. They help the reader understand the relationship between ideas and how they are connected. Without transition words, your writing may seem disjointed and difficult to follow. By using transition words, you can create a clear and logical progression of ideas that makes your writing easier to understand.

Flow of Writing

Transition words are essential for maintaining the flow of your writing. They help you move smoothly from one idea to the next without abrupt changes or interruptions. When you use transition words, your writing becomes more cohesive and easier to read. This is particularly important when writing longer pieces, such as essays or research papers, where the reader needs to follow a complex argument.

Connecting Sentences and Paragraphs

Transition words are also useful for connecting sentences and paragraphs. They help you link one idea to the next, creating a seamless transition between different parts of your writing. This is particularly important when writing persuasive or argumentative pieces, where you need to build a strong case for your point of view.

Starting a paragraph can be challenging, especially when you’re trying to connect it to the previous one. That’s where transition words come in handy.

First Paragraph

When you’re writing the first paragraph of an essay or article, you need to introduce your topic and grab the reader’s attention. Here are some transition words that can help you achieve that:


Firstly	Used to introduce the first point
To begin with	Used to introduce the first idea
In the first place	Used to introduce the first argument
Initially	Used to introduce the first step
At the outset	Used to introduce the beginning

For example:

Firstly, let’s discuss the importance of exercise for a healthy lifestyle.
To begin with, we need to understand the history of the conflict.
In the first place, the government needs to address the issue of poverty.
Initially, we need to gather all the necessary information.
At the outset, it’s important to establish the goals of the project.

Introducing a New Point

When you’re introducing a new point or idea in your writing, you need to use transition words that show the relationship between the previous and the new sentence. Here are some transition words that can help you achieve that:


Additionally	Used to add information
Furthermore	Used to add more information
Moreover	Used to add another point
In addition	Used to add to what has been said
Also	Used to add another point

Additionally, we need to consider the environmental impact of our actions.
Furthermore, the study found that the new treatment was more effective.
Moreover, the company has seen a significant increase in profits.
In addition, we need to take into account the cultural differences.
Also, it’s important to note that the study had a small sample size.

Contrasting Ideas

When you’re presenting contrasting ideas in your writing, you need to use transition words that show the difference between the two ideas. Here are some transition words that can help you achieve that:


However	Used to show a contrast
Nevertheless	Used to show a contrast
On the other hand	Used to show the opposite side of an argument
In contrast	Used to show a difference
Nonetheless	Used to show a contrast

However, some experts disagree with this approach.
Nevertheless, the study found some positive results.
On the other hand, some argue that the benefits outweigh the risks.
In contrast, the previous study found no significant difference.
Nonetheless, the company decided to proceed with the project.

Sequential Transition Words

When writing an essay or a report, it is important to use transition words to help guide the reader through your ideas. Sequential transition words are especially useful when you want to show a sequence of events or ideas.

The word “next” is often used to show that something is going to happen after something else. Here are some examples:

I finished my homework. Next, I went to bed.
We need to buy some milk. Next, we can go to the park.

“Secondly” is a more formal way of saying “next”. It is often used when you want to show that there are two or more points you want to make. Here are some examples:

Firstly, we need to make sure we have all the ingredients. Secondly, we need to preheat the oven.
There are two main reasons why I want to go on vacation. Firstly, I need a break from work. Secondly, I want to spend time with my family.

“Third” is used to show that something is happening after two other things. Here are some examples:

First, we need to make a plan. Second, we need to gather our materials. Third, we can start building.
There are three things I need to do today. First, I need to go to the bank. Second, I need to buy groceries. Third, I need to do laundry.

Subsequently

“Subsequently” is a more formal way of saying “afterward”. It is often used to show that something happened as a result of something else. Here are some examples:

I missed my bus. Subsequently, I was late for work.
The company lost a lot of money. Subsequently, many employees were laid off.

“Sequential” is an adjective that means “in sequence”. Here are some examples:

We need to follow a sequential process to complete this project.
The chapters in this book are arranged in sequential order.

Cause and Effect Transition Words

What are cause and effect transition words.

Cause and effect transition words are used to show the relationship between a cause and its effect. They are used to indicate why something happened (cause) and what happened as a result (effect). Some common cause and effect transition words include:

Cause: because, since, as, due to, for this reason
Effect: consequently, as a result, hence, therefore, thus

Examples of Cause and Effect Transition Words

Here are some examples of how cause and effect transition words can be used in a sentence:

Due to the heavy rain, the streets were flooded. (Cause: heavy rain, Effect: flooded streets)
Because the company invested in new technology, productivity increased. (Cause: investment in technology, Effect: increased productivity)
As a result of the pandemic, many businesses closed down. (Cause: pandemic, Effect: business closures)
The traffic was heavy, hence I was late for the meeting. (Cause: heavy traffic, Effect: late for meeting)

List of Cause and Effect Transition Words

Here is a list of cause and effect transition words that you can use in your writing:


Because	Consequently
Since	As a result
As	Hence
Due to	Therefore
For this reason	Thus

Tips for Using Cause and Effect Transition Words

When using cause and effect transition words in your writing, it is important to remember the following tips:

Use them sparingly: While transition words are important, using too many can make your writing sound unnatural.
Use them correctly: Make sure you are using the correct transition word to show the relationship between cause and effect.
Vary your language: Try to use a variety of transition words to keep your writing interesting.

Contrast and Comparison Transition Words

When writing a paragraph, it is important to use transition words to help the reader understand the relationship between the ideas presented. One common type of transition word is the contrast and comparison transition word. These words are used to show the differences and similarities between two or more ideas. Here are some examples and meanings of contrast and comparison transition words:


However	Indicates a contrast between two ideas
Although	Indicates a contrast between two ideas
Though	Indicates a contrast between two ideas
On the other hand	Indicates a contrast between two ideas
Conversely	Indicates a contrast between two ideas
Despite	Indicates a contrast between two ideas
Whereas	Indicates a contrast between two ideas
In contrast	Indicates a contrast between two ideas
Notwithstanding	Indicates a contrast between two ideas

Example Sentences:

However , the new policy has not been well received by employees.
Although the company has experienced some setbacks, it remains profitable.
The weather was bad, though we still managed to have a good time.
We should invest in renewable energy. On the other hand , fossil fuels are becoming increasingly scarce.
The company’s profits have increased. Conversely , its stock price has decreased.
Despite the fact that he was tired, he went to the gym.
The company’s sales have been declining, whereas its competitors’ sales have been increasing.
The first book was boring. In contrast , the second book was exciting.
Notwithstanding the challenges, we were able to complete the project on time.

Using contrast and comparison transition words can help make your writing more clear and concise. They allow the reader to easily understand the relationship between ideas, and can make your writing more interesting to read.

Emphasis and Addition Transition Words

Emphasis transition words.

Emphasis transition words are used to highlight the importance of a particular point. These words help you to draw the reader’s attention to a specific idea or argument. Some of the commonly used emphasis transition words are:


Above all	Most importantly
Equally important	Of the same importance
Indeed	Truly
In fact	Actually
Not only	As well as
But also	In addition to

Above all , it is important to prioritize your health.
Equally important , we need to consider the environmental impact of our actions.
Indeed , the research shows that regular exercise can improve mental health.
In fact , studies have found that social media can have a negative impact on mental health.
Not only does smoking affect your health, but also it harms the environment.
We need to reduce our carbon footprint, but also we need to find ways to reduce plastic waste.

Addition Transition Words

Addition transition words are used to add more information to your writing. These words help you to connect your ideas and to make your writing more cohesive. Some of the commonly used addition transition words are:


Moreover	In addition
Furthermore	Also
Additionally	Also
Likewise	Similarly
Further	Moreover

Regular exercise can improve mental health. Moreover , it can also reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
Social media can have a negative impact on mental health. Furthermore , it can also affect sleep patterns.
We need to reduce our carbon footprint. Additionally , we need to find ways to reduce plastic waste.
Likewise , we need to consider the impact of our actions on future generations.
The research shows that smoking is harmful to health. Further , it can also harm the health of those around you.

Conclusion and Summarization Transition Words

In Conclusion

This phrase is commonly used to signal the final remarks in a piece of writing. It helps summarize the main points or findings that have been discussed throughout the text.

Example: In conclusion , it is clear that the benefits of exercise outweigh the risks.

This word is used to indicate a logical conclusion or result. It is often used to summarize the main argument of a piece of writing.

Example: Therefore , it is important to take steps to reduce carbon emissions to prevent climate change .

Example: Thus , it can be concluded that the research supports the hypothesis.

This word is used to indicate the outcome of a particular action or event. It is often used to summarize the main findings of a study or experiment.

Example: The result of the study showed that there was a significant improvement in the students’ test scores.

This word is used to indicate a brief summary of the main points or findings of a piece of writing.

Example: To summarize , the study found that there was a positive correlation between exercise and mental health.

This phrase is used to indicate a brief summary of the main points or findings of a piece of writing.

Example: In sum , the research supports the hypothesis that there is a link between stress and illness.

Example: In short , the study found that there was a significant improvement in the students’ reading comprehension.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some effective transition words for starting a new paragraph?

Some effective transition words for starting a new paragraph include “firstly,” “secondly,” “furthermore,” “moreover,” “in addition,” and “however.” These words help to connect ideas and make your writing more cohesive.

How can I use transition words to improve my writing?

Using transition words can improve your writing by making it more organized and easier to follow. They help to signal changes in thought and guide the reader through your writing. Make sure to use them appropriately and sparingly, as overusing them can make your writing sound forced or choppy.

What are some common transition words used in English writing?

Some common transition words used in English writing include “therefore,” “consequently,” “nevertheless,” “meanwhile,” and “likewise.” These words help to show relationships between ideas and make your writing more coherent.

Can transition words be used at the beginning of a sentence?

Yes, transition words can be used at the beginning of a sentence. However, be careful not to overuse them, as this can make your writing sound repetitive or formulaic.

What are some examples of transitional phrases?

Some examples of transitional phrases include “in conclusion,” “on the other hand,” “as a result,” “in summary,” and “for instance.” These phrases help to signal changes in thought and guide the reader through your writing.

Some effective transition words for starting a new paragraph include \"firstly,\" \"secondly,\" \"furthermore,\" \"moreover,\" \"in addition,\" and \"however.\" These words help to connect ideas and make your writing more cohesive.

"}},{"@type":"Question","name":"How can I use transition words to improve my writing?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"

"}},{"@type":"Question","name":"What are some common transition words used in English writing?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"

Some common transition words used in English writing include \"therefore,\" \"consequently,\" \"nevertheless,\" \"meanwhile,\" and \"likewise.\" These words help to show relationships between ideas and make your writing more coherent.

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"}},{"@type":"Question","name":"What are some examples of transitional phrases?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"

Some examples of transitional phrases include \"in conclusion,\" \"on the other hand,\" \"as a result,\" \"in summary,\" and \"for instance.\" These phrases help to signal changes in thought and guide the reader through your writing.

"}},{"@type":"Question","name":"How can I make my writing flow better using transition words?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"

To make your writing flow better using transition words, try to use them sparingly and only when necessary. Make sure that they are used appropriately and that they help to connect your ideas in a logical and coherent manner. Additionally, try to vary your sentence structure and avoid using the same transition words repeatedly.

Here is a table of some common transition words with their meanings:

\n \n

Transition Word	Meaning
Firstly	Introducing the first point
Secondly	Introducing the second point
Furthermore	Adding more information
Moreover	Adding more information
In addition	Adding more information
However	Contrasting or showing a different perspective
Therefore	Showing a conclusion or result
Consequently	Showing a cause and effect relationship
Nevertheless	Contrasting or showing a different perspective
Meanwhile	Showing a simultaneous action
Likewise	Showing a similarity or agreement
In conclusion	Summarizing the main points
On the other hand	Contrasting or showing a different perspective
As a result	Showing a conclusion or result
In summary	Summarizing the main points
For instance	Providing an example

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70+ Transition words for essays with examples

Transition words for essays.

Ever stared at a blank page, your thoughts swirling like a disorganized storm? Crafting a compelling essay often hinges on smooth transitions between ideas. Fear not, fellow writer! Here’s your guide to essential transition words , those linguistic gems that bridge the gaps in your essay and create a clear, logical flow.

List of Transition words for essays

Additionally
Furthermore
In addition
In the same way
In other words
That is to say
For example
For instance
Specifically
To illustrate
In particular
Without a doubt
Essentially
In conclusion
To conclude
On the whole
Consequently
Accordingly
As a result
For this reason
Because of this
Due to this
In light of this
Considering that
Seeing that
As a matter of fact
Nonetheless
Nevertheless
Even though
In spite of
On the contrary

Transition words for essays with examples

Here are examples of sentences using each of the transition words for cause:

Additionally : “She enjoys playing the piano. Additionally, she is proficient in playing the guitar.”
Furthermore : “The research indicated a positive correlation between exercise and mental health. Furthermore, it suggested that regular physical activity reduces stress levels.”
Moreover : “The company reported an increase in sales for the third quarter. Moreover, profits also saw a significant rise.”
In addition : “He enjoys outdoor activities such as hiking and camping. In addition, he is passionate about photography.”
Also : “He enjoys playing tennis. Also, he participates in swimming competitions.”
Likewise : “She volunteered at the local shelter. Likewise, her brother also dedicated his time to community service.”
Similarly : “The team implemented new strategies to improve productivity. Similarly, other departments adopted similar approaches.”
In the same way : “She excels in academics. In the same way, her siblings also achieve high grades.”
Equally : “Both candidates possess strong leadership skills. Equally, they demonstrate excellent communication abilities.”
Besides : “She enjoys reading novels. Besides, she also enjoys writing short stories.”
In other words : “The product received mixed reviews due to its functionality issues. In other words, customers experienced difficulties with its performance.”
That is to say : “She loves traveling to exotic destinations. That is to say, she prefers exploring off-the-beaten-path locations.”
Namely : “The research focused on several key areas, namely, customer satisfaction, product quality, and market trends.”
For example : “Many countries have implemented strict environmental policies. For example, Denmark has achieved significant progress in renewable energy.”
For instance : “Some popular social media platforms, for instance, Facebook and Instagram, have millions of active users.”
Specifically : “The training program focuses specifically on enhancing leadership skills and fostering teamwork.”
To illustrate : “To illustrate the concept further, let’s consider a real-life example.”
In particular : “The company aims to expand its operations globally. In particular, it plans to target emerging markets in Asia.”
In fact : “Contrary to popular belief, exercise is not only beneficial for physical health but also for mental well-being. In fact, it has been shown to reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety.”
Indeed : “The company’s efforts to promote diversity have yielded positive results. Indeed, diversity has been linked to increased innovation and creativity.”
Actually : “Contrary to what many people believe, the situation is actually quite different.”
Truly : “She was truly dedicated to her work and always gave her best effort.”
Certainly : “The results of the study certainly support the hypothesis.”
Of course : “Of course, you are welcome to join us for dinner.”
Without a doubt : “Without a doubt, she is one of the most talented musicians I’ve ever met.”
In essence : “The policy change, in essence, aims to improve customer satisfaction.”
Essentially : “The project, essentially, involves redesigning the user interface.”
In summary : “In summary, the findings suggest a need for further research in this area.”
In conclusion : “In conclusion, it is evident that climate change poses significant challenges.”
To sum up : “To sum up, the main points of the argument are as follows.”
In brief : “In brief, the report highlights key areas for improvement.”
To conclude : “To conclude, let’s consider the implications of these findings.”
Overall : “Overall, the project was a success.”
All in all : “All in all, it was a memorable experience.”
On the whole : “On the whole, the feedback has been positive.”
Therefore : “The traffic was heavy; therefore, they arrived late to the meeting.”
Thus : “The factory implemented new safety measures; thus, the number of accidents decreased.”
Hence : “The flight was canceled; hence, they had to make alternative travel arrangements.”
Consequently : “He missed the deadline; consequently, he faced disciplinary action.”
Accordingly : “The instructions were unclear; accordingly, many participants made mistakes.”
As a result : “The market demand increased; as a result, prices rose.”
For this reason : “She forgot her umbrella; for this reason, she got wet in the rain.”
Because of this : “He missed the train because of this, he couldn’t attend the meeting.”
Due to this : “Due to this unforeseen circumstance, the event had to be postponed.”
In light of this : “In light of this new information, we need to reconsider our strategy.”
Since : “Since it was raining heavily, they decided to stay indoors.”
Because : “He didn’t study for the exam because he was feeling unwell.”
For : “He received a promotion for his outstanding performance.”
As : “As the temperature dropped, people bundled up in warm clothing.”
Owing to : “Owing to his persistent efforts, he achieved success.”
Given that : “Given that she had prior experience, she was appointed as the team leader.”
Considering that : “Considering that it was his first attempt, he performed exceptionally well.”
Seeing that : “Seeing that the store was closing soon, they hurried to finish their shopping.”
In view of : “In view of the current situation, we need to take immediate action.”
As a matter of fact : “As a matter of fact, he was the first to arrive at the party.”
Regardless : “He continued with the project regardless of the challenges he faced.”
Nonetheless : “The weather was unfavorable; nonetheless, they decided to go ahead with the outdoor event.”
Nevertheless : “The plan faced criticism; nevertheless, it was implemented successfully.”
However : “She forgot her passport; however, she managed to board the flight with a temporary permit.”
Although : “Although it was raining, they decided to go for a walk.”
Though : “Though she was tired, she continued working late into the night.”
Even though : “Even though he was warned about the risks, he proceeded with the plan.”
Despite : “Despite the challenges, they remained committed to their goal.”
In spite of : “In spite of the obstacles, they persevered and succeeded.”
On the contrary : “The results were contrary to expectations; on the contrary, they were favorable.”
Conversely : “He expected to feel relieved; conversely, he felt even more anxious.”
But : “The weather was sunny, but they decided to cancel the picnic due to other commitments.”
Yet : “He had a busy schedule, yet he managed to find time for his hobbies.”
Whereas : “She preferred coffee, whereas her sister preferred tea.”

By mastering the art of transition words, you’ll transform your essay from a disjointed collection of ideas into a powerful and persuasive piece of writing. So, the next time you sit down to write, remember these transition words and watch your essay flow majestically!

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Essay Writing Guide

Transition Words For Essays

Transition Words For Essays - The Ultimate List

11 min read

What are Good Transition Words for Essays?

Transition words are essential tools in essay writing , providing a clear path for your readers to follow. They serve the crucial purpose of connecting words, phrases, sentences, or even entire paragraphs.

By using these transitions effectively, you can effortlessly convey your ideas and thoughts in a coherent and easily understandable manner.

However, it's crucial to exercise moderation when using transition words. Overusing them can clutter your essay, making it confusing and difficult to read.

On the other hand, omitting them entirely can result in a piece that lacks flow and direction. Striking the right balance ensures that your essay is both engaging and comprehensible.

Purpose of Transition Words

Let’s take a look at the purpose of using transitions in essays:

Enhance Readability: Transition words improve the overall flow and coherence of your writing.
Clarify Relationships: They signal connections between ideas, whether it's adding, contrasting, or summarizing.
Improve Comprehension: Readers can follow your argument or narrative more easily.
Smooth Transitions: They act as bridges, seamlessly guiding your audience from one point to the next.
Manage Change: They prepare the reader for shifts in topic or perspective.
Enhance Engagement: Well-placed transitions keep readers interested and invested in your content.
Encourage Flow: They maintain a logical progression, aiding in the overall structure of your work.

Examples of Different Types of Transition Words

Here are some common types of transitions for essays that can be used in almost any situation.

Addition Transitions

Furthermore
Additionally
In addition
Not only...but also

Comparison Transitions

In the same way
Comparable to
Correspondingly
In comparison
By the same token

Contrast Transitions

On the other hand
In contrast
Nevertheless
Nonetheless
Even though

Cause and Effect Transitions

Consequently
As a result
For this reason
Accordingly

Time Transitions

Simultaneously
In the meantime
Subsequently
At the same time

Illustration Transitions

For example
For instance
Specifically
To illustrate
In particular
In this case
As an illustration

Emphasis Transitions

Undoubtedly
Without a doubt

Summary Transitions

To summarize
To conclude

Sequence Transitions

Example transitions.

As an example
To demonstrate
For one thing
As evidence
As an instance

For Showing Exception

At The Same Time
Nevertheless
On The Other Hand
But At The Same Time
Conversely

For Proving

For This Reason
Certainly
To Demonstrate
In Fact
Clearly
As A Result

This transition words for essays list will make it easier for you to understand what words to use in which kind of essay or for which purpose.

Transition Words for Argumentative Essays

To begin with
By contrast
One alternative is
To put more simply
On the contrary
With this in mind
All things considered
Generally speaking
That is to say
Yet another

Transition Words for Persuasive Essays

furthermore
Moreover
Because
Besides that
Pursuing this further

Transition Words for Essays PDF

Transition Words for Compare and Contrast Essays

Althoughyhtjyjum,u
Notwithstanding

Transition Words for Informative Essays

After all
As can be expected
Obviously

Transition Words for Expository Essays

Equally important
Another reason
Not long after that
Looking back

Transition Words for Cause and Effect Essays

In order to
Provided that
Because of this

Transition Words for Synthesis Essays

As noted earlier
Consequently
Whereas
This leads to
Another factor
This lead to
The underlying concept
In this respect

Transition Words for Analysis Essays

(once) again
Primarily
Due to
Accordingly
That is to say
Subsequently
To demonstrate
However

Conclusion Transition Words for Essays

In any event
As mentioned
In other words
As you can see

Beginning Transition Words for Essays

These are some introduction transition words for essays to start writing:

In the first place
First of all
For the most part
On one hand
As a rule

Paragraph Transition Words for Essays

To put it differently
Once and for all

Transition Words for Essay’s First Body Paragraph

To start with
First and foremost
In the beginning

Transition Words for Essay’s Second Body Paragraph

In addition to this
Furthermore

Transition Words for Essay’s Last Body Paragraph

In conclusion
Finally
Last but not least
To sum up
Altogether

Transition Words for Quotes in Essays

Acknowledges

Transition Words for Essays Middle School

In conclusion
For instance

Transition Words for Essays High School

Today
In addition
To summarize
On the other hand
As well as
Although

Transition Words for Essays College

Here are some college level transition words for essay:

Pursuing this
Similarly
What’s more
As much as
In a like manner
In the same fashion

Do’s and Don’ts of Using Transition Words

So, now you have some strong transition words for essays at hand. But how do you use these transition words?

Here are the basic dos and don’ts of using transition words for essays.

Understand that these terms are an important part of any type of essay or paper, adding to its overall flow and readability.
Use these words when you are presenting a new idea. For example, start a new paragraph with these phrases, followed by a comma.
Do not overuse transition words. It is one of the most common essay writing problems that students end up with. It is important to only use those words required to convey your message clearly. It is good to sound smart by using these words but don’t overdo it.
Avoid using these words at the start and in the middle. Always try to use transition words only a few times where it is necessary to make it easy for the readers to follow the ideas.

So, now you have an extensive list of transition words. These are some of the best transition words for essays that you can add to your essays.

If your essay seems redundant because you used similar transition words, you can always have a look at this list to find some good replacements.

So, whenever you’re writing an essay, refer back to this list and let your words flow!

If you still feel that your essay is not properly conveying your ideas, turn to our expert essay writers at MyPerfectWords.com.

If you have some write-up, our write my essay service will make it flow without changing the entire content. Or, if you wish to write an essay from scratch, we will write a paper for you!

Simply contact us and place your order now. Our writers will take care of everything to help you ace your assignment.

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Transition words and phrases: Examples and tips

Masooma Memon

transition words to start a paragraph for essays

Ever put together a sandwich without any sauce?

Even if you haven’t, you can tell there’s nothing to hold together your sandwich’s ingredients, which makes eating it a messy affair. Transition words are the same.

They’re English language’s garlic mayo (or whatever flavor you prefer) that glue ideas, sentences, and paragraphs so they stick together in a sensible whole.

See the ‘and’ and ‘so’ in the sentence you just read? They’re transition words examples that help make the sentence flow in logical sense.

Want to learn how to use them like a pro? Read on. We’ll cover everything from transition words to start a new paragraph to their types and how you can use them.

Let’s get on with it:

What are transition words?

Transition words are words and even phrases that connect ideas. ‘Because,’ ‘consequently,’ ‘and,’ ‘what’s more,’ ‘resultantly,’ ‘in sum,’ and ‘briefly’ are a few common transition words examples.

Owing to their job as words that bridge ideas, transition words are also called connecting or linking words.

Here’s a look at transition sentences examples that I’ve pulled from Rework by David Heinemeier Hansson and Jason Fried:

When good enough gets the job done, go for it. It’s way better than wasting resources, or even worse, doing nothing because you can’t afford the complex solution. And, remember, you can usually turn good enough to great later.

Now let’s imagine these sentences without good transition words gluing all the thoughts together:

What we get here is a mishmash of ideas that make zero sense about how they’re linked to each other. To top that up, the flow’s toast.

The takeaway? Whether it’s transition words between paragraphs, transition words at the start of a sentence, or those that stitch sentences together in a cohesive paragraph, you can’t take these words for granted.

Why do you need transition words?

Although we’ve briefly touched on the why already, it’s time we take a microscope to the role that a transitional word plays:

Transition words are link builders

They link ideas to one another, so that they form a whole when put together. With connecting words, you can see the link between actions and arguments – say something happens as a consequence of another thing as in the sentence below:

She couldn’t bear another day in the wretched city. So, she left the town in search of a bright future.

They put your thoughts in order

Organized thoughts breathe sense into your writing. Whether it’s academic writing that you’re doing or a blog post you’re working on, you’ll find this particularly valuable.

Why? Because the previous argument you make will flow in order as each idea builds upon another like a pyramid of cards.

Of course, the better your thoughts are organized, the smoother your piece will flow, which, in turn, gives your work a logical structure.

They’re proponents of brevity and clarity

Try as you might, you can’t create links between ideas without transition words acting as succinct bridges between them.

With these magic connectors, you can keep your writing clear, to the point, and sharp as a pencil.

Here’s an example:

Lightning struck all night, resulting in broken poles and a town without electricity for two days.

Let’s omit the transition words here and try rewriting this sentence: Lightning struck all night. There were broken poles. A town without electricity for two days.

Something sounds off, doesn’t it?

For one, there’s no flow to these short phrases and the ideas feel foreign to each other without connecting words. And, two, you’ve to rely on multiple sentences that are better off as one.

Transition words make writing easy to read

All this talk about organization, logical structure, and good flow and clarity pool together to deliver the champion writing characteristic – good readability.

That’s when your content is easy to read, gently pushing the reader from one sentence to another until they get through to the end. Bingo!

When and how to use transition words

Now that you know what transition words can help you with, you’re in a better position to use them.

Want to add up points together? Transition words can help. Want to agree with something or stress on a message? Again, use transition words. Want to introduce a shift or bring things to a close? You know what to do.

Besides if you ever feel there’s a lack of coherence or logical connections between your thoughts, you’ll want to revisit the transition words you’re using. Same goes for a lack of order in your writing.

Tip: Once you’re done writing, give the draft a break. Come back to read it out loud. Reading loudly helps you understand the flow, therefore, the need for transition words to make up for abrupt change in idea.

For a stronger hold on when and how to use transition words, get to grips on the different types of transition words such as conclusion transition words, introduction transition words, and more.

For instance, if there’s a consequence to an action, you’ll want to lean on cause and effect transition words such as ‘consequently,’ ‘subsequently,’ ‘next,’ and so on.

The crime on the streets got people worried. Next, came the terrible wind and people started locking themselves in their homes post dusk.

Similarly, if you’re sharing steps, you’ll need sequence or enumeration transition words like ‘firstly,’ ‘secondly,’ ‘thirdly,’ ‘lastly,’ and others. This example shows such transition words in action:

Shortly after her husband gave up on her, she ended up moving to downtown London.

We’ll look at the types of transition words in just a bit. For now, here’s a look at the punctuation that goes hand in glove with the use of transition words. This way, you’ll get everything related to the use of transition words correct down to the bone.

Two rules to keep in mind here are:

Use a period (.) or semicolon (;) after the first sentence. Use the latter only when you’re connecting two independent sentences that’ll do just fine as standalone sentences as well.

Sarah was going through a rough patch in her personal life. Naturally, her performance at work started suffering.

Use a comma before the transition word in a sentence to separate it from the rest of the sentence

I’ve been very careful about going out alone, but I can’t help it if an emergency crops up.

Positioning transition words

Frankly, transition words can occupy every nook and cranny in your writing. Hard to believe?

Briefly, here are the different places transition words do their job as an adhesive

• At the start of a sentence

• At the end of a sentence

• Smack dab in the middle of a sentence

• Transition words that start a new paragraph

Types and examples of transition words

For each type of transition word, we’ve a list below. We’ve also compiled a list of transition words into a cheat sheet of 100 transition words that you can fetch here (no sign in required).

1. Addition/agreement transition words

As their name indicates, these transition words help build up points like putting Legos together.

In addition, another key point, indeed

2. Comparison/contrast words

These magic words make it easy for you to sketch differences.

But, (and) still, (and) yet, on the contrast, on the flip side, on the contrary, in contrast, in comparison, regardless, nevertheless, nonetheless, irrespective, regardless, above all, after all.

3. Clarity transition words

If you plan on explaining an idea further, clarity transition words can be of help.

To clarify, to put it differently, by all means, in other words, to put it differently, that is to say, to emphasize, to repeat, to explain, to go in detail, especially, to rephrase,

4. Cause and effect/results transition words

Did something occur as a reaction to an action? Explain them using cause and effect transition words.

Accordingly, resultantly, consequently, as a result, subsequently, thereupon, forthwith, accordingly, henceforth, under the circumstances, Consequently, subsequently, with this mind, with this intention, in the event that, in terms of, to this end, in as much as, owing to, lest, because of, in case, in view of, in order to,

5. Concession transition words

If there’s a compromise to be made, this type of transition words can help. You’ll typically find these at the start and end of a sentence.

Granted, of course, naturally,

6. Emphasis transition words

As is obvious, emphasis transition words play a useful role accentuating a point or stressing on something’s importance.

In fact, above all, to top it all, Importance: of less importance, chiefly, foundationally, primarily, secondarily, critically, of less importance.

7. Enumeration/sequence transition words

These words define time.

What’s more, furthermore, eventually, gradually, earlier, meanwhile, finally, in due time, from time to time, sooner or later, as long as, in the meantime, immediately, instantly, quickly, overtime, by the time, prior to, during, since, till, afterward,

8. Example/support transition words

If you’re backing things with examples, you’ll want to alert readers of an example coming through. How? Use example transition words.

to illustrate, to demonstrate, that is, For instance, for example that you’ll find in abundance in this post.

9. Location/place transition words

Next up, place transition words show location or explain when something happens, making them a helpful device for descriptive writing in particular.

in front of, in the middle of, in the distance, to the left/right, here and there, amid, amongst, beyond, further, alongside, in the background, adjacent, nearer,

10. Similarity transition words

Another batch of good transition words are similarity words that pull similarities – much the opposite of contrast words.

Likewise, similarly, in the same vein, by the same token, in like manner, in similar fashion, in the same way

11. Conclusion transition words

These words work in the summation department. They’re a huge help for writing conclusions or summing up different ideas under discussion.

Therefore, thus, in summary, to summarize, in sum, to sum it up, In other words, in brief, briefly, in conclusion, for the most part, in a word, overall, on the whole, all in all, in essence, ultimately, by and large, in short, generally speaking.

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Transition Words (List for Essays, Paragraphs, and Writing)

In grammar , transition words play a very important role. If used correctly, they can link your ideas, make your paragraphs more coherent, and enhance your writing.

But first – what exactly are transition words and how should you use them ?

What exactly are transition words?

Simply put, transition words are words that basically act as the powerful link that holds your sentences together. They are used to show the relationship between two (or more) phrases, sentences, and even paragraphs.

Transition words improve the flow of your writing, and make it more sensible and easier to read . Words like “and,” “additionally,” “because,” “therefore,” etc. are all transition words. Along with transition words, we also have transition phrases like “as well as,” “for example,” “after all,” etc.

Why are transition words used in a sentence?

1. they are link builders.

Using transition words helps you connect your ideas and thoughts clearly. It helps the reader understand how different ideas logically are related and not get confused. In addition, these words also prepare the readers for what they should expect next.

Let’s consider the following example:

Shannon couldn’t sleep well last night. Therefore , she drank two cups of coffee before starting her day.

Now, using the transition word “therefore” helped you achieve two things here:

It told the reader the cause-and-effect relationship between two things
It described how these sentences are connected and are a part of one process.

From the above example, the reader will understand that Shannon requires two cups of coffee because she couldn’t sleep well last night. These are two different sentences, but they are glued together with the transition word. Remove the transition word and both of these sentences will lose coherency.

2. Transition words help you put your thoughts in a logical order

Organized thoughts are essential elements of clear and concise writing. Writers should ensure that all the points mentioned in a sentence have a logical flow and there should not be any abrupt pauses between them.

Transition words help in introducing sequence or order to your writing. Here’s how:

First , we will go shopping. Then , we will go to a movie.

Here, we have used two transition words (“first” and “then”) at the beginning of two different sentences. They are used to denote a particular order in which two actions are to be performed.

3. Transition words make your work logical and easy to read

High-quality writing is always clear and easy to understand. It has a logical structure and helps the reader move from one thought to another effortlessly. The simpler the writing, the better the readability!

Transition words are the magic connectors that help you write in clear and plain English.

In both the above-mentioned examples, we have used the transition word at the beginning of the sentences. However, these words can also be used in the middle or at the end of a sense or phrase.

Consider the following sentence, for example:

I love watching the TV show F.R.I.E.N.D.S because it makes me laugh.

Here, the transition word “because” helps in joining two clauses . It helps the reader understand two things clearly:

Which TV show does the writer loves watching
Why do they love watching that particular show

Different categories of transition words

Depending upon their usage and the types of transition a writer wishes to make, transition words are usually divided into multiple categories. There are transition words to show contrast, similarity, examples, and whatnot!

Generally, we have more than one transition word for a particular situation/ transition and so writers can pick the ones according to their liking.

Most of the time, these words mean the same things. However, sometimes they have slightly different meanings. Thus, it is important to understand the meaning and use-case of these words before making your final choice.

Here are some transition word examples according to different categories:

When it comes to displaying contrast “but” is the most common transition word. However, it is not the only word. There are several other transition words that you can use to display contrast in your sentences. Some of the common words include:

On the contrary
On the other hand
Despite this
Nevertheless

Cause and effect

These transition words are used for denoting the cause-and-effect relationship between two sentences. The common transition words you can use for this are as follows:

Accordingly

Another common use of transition words is to show the similarity between sentences and phrases. Here are some commonly used transition words for denoting the similarity between two sentences:

In the same way

For showing different periods, the following transition words should be used:

Immediately
Subsequently

These transition words also define sequence or time. Here are some common sequence-based transition words that writers can include in their work:

These transition words are used to connect things based on their location or where they are placed to each other. Here are some of them:

Adjacent to

As the name suggests, emphasis transition words help you in stressing an important point and accentuate your argument. Here are some common emphasis transition words:

These transition words offer huge help when you are drafting the conclusion of your work . Whether you are working on a school essay, summing up an idea, or working on your blog, conclusion transition words are an integral part of all kinds of writing.

Here are some common conclusion transition words that writers can use to simplify their writing:

In conclusion
To sum it up
On the whole

Do transition words actually make a difference?

The main purpose of transition words is to make clunky, confusing, and disjointed sentences smooth , logical, and coherent. These words must be used to improve the flow of sentences and make your paper more engaging.

When trying to write in plain English, using appropriate transition words wherever possible can make a significant positive impact.

Writers must avoid making abrupt pauses or jumping from one sentence to another illogically. Instead, it is recommended to use transition words to establish an organizational flow in your work.

But the question is – do transition words actually work?

Let’s consider the following sentences – with and without the transition word – and see the difference:

Jess is going back home for three months. He needs two big bags to carry all his belongings.

While there is nothing wrong with these two sentences, they lack a logical flow. Here’s how using a transition word can improve it.

Jess is going back home for three months therefore he needs two big bags to carry all his belongings.
Robin decided to stop studying. She failed high school .

Again, while both of these sentences are grammatically correct, they neither sound good nor logical, There’s an abrupt pause between them. Let’s see how they’ll sound after adding a transition word.

Robin decided to stop studying. Consequently , she failed high school.
I could go home. I could stay at the office and finish my work.

Now, these two sentences don’t sound coherent at all. There is something off about them, they lack flow, and they don’t make any logical sense, right? However, once we add a simple transition word between them, they will become so much better. Here’s how:

I could go home, or I could stay at the office and finish my work.

By adding “or” (a contrast transition word), we linked the sentences. No need to rely on two awkward sentences that are better off as one.

How to use transition words correctly

In order to make a positive difference in your writing, the transition words must be used in a grammatically correct way.

When including transition words in their sentences, writers must remember the following important points:

1. The correct placement: When writing an essay, a blog, or an academic paper, the placement of the transition words plays a crucial role. Writers must plan where they want to place the transition words beforehand and then proceed with writing the sentences.

Generally, transition words can be placed –

At the beginning of the sentences
At the end of the sentences
In the middle of a sentence

2. Use a comma : When using a transition word in the middle of the sentence, it is important to always use a comma (,) before it. Doing so will separate the transition word from the rest of the sentence and give more clarity to your writing.

3. Consider the relationship between two sentences: It is another important tip that every writer must use while including transition words in their writing. Two sentences can have different kinds of relationships. They can be in agreement or disagreement with each other, there can be a cause-and-effect relationship, they can be in chronological order, etc.

Thus, it is crucial to have a clear idea about their relationship before deciding on a transition word.

Key takeaways

In English, using transition words can do wonders for your writing. It can make it more appealing, logical, and clear for the readers. Today, we have learned a lot about transition words and how writers should use them in their work.

Here is a quick summary of everything that we have learned in this article:

Transition words are words that are used when a writer is transitioning from one point to another.
They are commonly used as “linking words” that join two or more sentences, phrases, and paragraphs.
Some common and widely used transition words in English include “also,” “or,” “therefore,” and “thus.”
There are various categories of transition words and writers can use them depending on the relationship between sentences. Common categories of transition words include – cause-and-effect transition, similarity transition, emphasis transition, contrast transition, and more.

The 10 most commonly used transitional words include the following:

Furthermore
Consequently

When using transition words, it is important to strike the correct balance. Overusing transition words can make your work hard to read and reduce its quality.

While you can use multiple transition words in a paragraph, it is recommended to use just one transition word in a sentence.

With SEO becoming more and more important, using the right amount of transition words in your content has become all the more important. Following the best SEO practices and including the ideal amount of transition words in blogs and articles can help in increasing their Google ranking.

Ideally, a writer must ensure that at least 30% of their sentences include transition words. This will go a long way in improving the readability of their content and making it more engaging and simple.

There are several ways to write effective transition sentences . Here are some writing tips that can help writers write effective transition sentences:

Generally, it is advisable to use transition words at the beginning of your sentences. It helps you introduce the paragraph topic and logically connect the new sentence with the previous one.
As much as possible, it is advisable to avoid using the transition word “this.” It is because it can make your sentences confusing as it is not always clear what or who “this” refers to. Moreover, many people use pronouns like “this” or “that” as filler words.

The five most common types of transitions include the following:

Comparison – For example, “similarly”, “likewise,” “in the same way,” etc.
Contrast – For example, “on the contrary,” “or,” “otherwise,” “however,” etc.
Emphasis – For example, “in fact,” “above all,” etc.
Sequence – For example, “first,” “next,” “eventually,” etc.
Consequence – For example, “accordingly,” “as a result,” “consequently,” etc.
Wikipedia – Transition
Yoast SEO – Transition words: why and how to use them
Your Dictionary – How do I include transition words in my essay
Writer’s Room – Transition words and phrases

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Fact checked: Content is rigorously reviewed by a team of qualified and experienced fact checkers. Fact checkers review articles for factual accuracy, relevance, and timeliness. Learn more.

About the author

Dalia Y.: Dalia is an English Major and linguistics expert with an additional degree in Psychology. Dalia has featured articles on Forbes, Inc, Fast Company, Grammarly, and many more. She covers English, ESL, and all things grammar on GrammarBrain.

Core lessons

Abstract Noun
Accusative Case
Active Sentence
Alliteration
Adjective Clause
Adjective Phrase
Adverbial Clause
Appositive Phrase
Body Paragraph
Compound Adjective
Complex Sentence
Compound Words
Compound Predicate
Common Noun
Comparative Adjective
Comparative and Superlative
Compound Noun
Compound Subject
Compound Sentence
Copular Verb
Collective Noun
Colloquialism
Conciseness
Conditional
Concrete Noun
Conjunction
Conjugation
Conditional Sentence
Comma Splice
Correlative Conjunction
Coordinating Conjunction
Coordinate Adjective
Cumulative Adjective
Dative Case
Declarative Statement
Direct Object Pronoun
Direct Object
Dangling Modifier
Demonstrative Pronoun
Demonstrative Adjective
Direct Characterization
Definite Article
Doublespeak
Equivocation Fallacy
Future Perfect Progressive
Future Simple
Future Perfect Continuous
Future Perfect
First Conditional
Gerund Phrase
Genitive Case
Helping Verb
Irregular Adjective
Irregular Verb
Imperative Sentence
Indefinite Article
Intransitive Verb
Introductory Phrase
Indefinite Pronoun
Indirect Characterization
Interrogative Sentence
Intensive Pronoun
Inanimate Object
Indefinite Tense
Infinitive Phrase
Interjection
Intensifier
Indicative Mood
Juxtaposition
Linking Verb
Misplaced Modifier
Nominative Case
Noun Adjective
Object Pronoun
Object Complement
Order of Adjectives
Parallelism
Prepositional Phrase
Past Simple Tense
Past Continuous Tense
Past Perfect Tense
Past Progressive Tense
Present Simple Tense
Present Perfect Tense
Personal Pronoun
Personification
Persuasive Writing
Parallel Structure
Phrasal Verb
Predicate Adjective
Predicate Nominative
Phonetic Language
Plural Noun
Punctuation
Punctuation Marks
Preposition
Preposition of Place
Parts of Speech
Possessive Adjective
Possessive Determiner
Possessive Case
Possessive Noun
Proper Adjective
Proper Noun
Present Participle
Quotation Marks
Relative Pronoun
Reflexive Pronoun
Reciprocal Pronoun
Subordinating Conjunction
Simple Future Tense
Stative Verb
Subjunctive
Subject Complement
Subject of a Sentence
Sentence Variety
Second Conditional
Superlative Adjective
Slash Symbol
Topic Sentence
Types of Nouns
Types of Sentences
Uncountable Noun
Vowels and Consonants

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Transition Words

As a "part of speech" transition words are used to link words, phrases or sentences. They help the reader to progress from one idea (expressed by the author) to the next idea. Thus, they help to build up coherent relationships within the text.

Transitional Words

This structured list of commonly used English transition words — approximately 200, can be considered as quasi complete. It can be used (by students and teachers alike) to find the right expression. English transition words are essential, since they not only connect ideas, but also can introduce a certain shift, contrast or opposition, emphasis or agreement, purpose, result or conclusion, etc. in the line of argument. The transition words and phrases have been assigned only once to somewhat artificial categories, although some words belong to more than one category.

There is some overlapping with prepositions and postpositions, but for the purpose of usage and completeness of this concise guide, I did not differentiate.

Linking & Connecting Words — Part 1/2

Agreement / Addition / Similarity

Opposition / limitation / contradiction, examples / support / emphasis, cause / condition / purpose, effect / consequence / result, conclusion / summary / restatement, time / chronology / sequence, space / location / place.

The transition words like also, in addition, and, likewise , add information , reinforce ideas , and express agreement with preceding material.

in the first place

not only ... but also

as a matter of fact

in like manner

in addition

coupled with

in the same fashion / way

first, second, third

in the light of

not to mention

to say nothing of

equally important

by the same token

identically

together with

comparatively

correspondingly

furthermore

additionally

Transition phrases like but , rather and or , express that there is evidence to the contrary or point out alternatives , and thus introduce a change the line of reasoning ( contrast ).

although this may be true

in contrast

different from

of course ..., but

on the other hand

on the contrary

at the same time

in spite of

even so / though

be that as it may

(and) still

even though

nevertheless

nonetheless

notwithstanding

These transitional phrases present specific conditions or intentions .

in the event that

granted (that)

as / so long as

on (the) condition (that)

for the purpose of

with this intention

with this in mind

in the hope that

to the end that

for fear that

in order to

seeing / being that

provided that

only / even if

inasmuch as

These transitional devices (like especially ) are used to introduce examples as support , to indicate importance or as an illustration so that an idea is cued to the reader.

in other words

to put it differently

for one thing

as an illustration

in this case

for this reason

to put it another way

that is to say

with attention to

by all means

important to realize

another key point

first thing to remember

most compelling evidence

must be remembered

point often overlooked

to point out

on the positive side

on the negative side

specifically

surprisingly

significantly

particularly

in particular

for example

for instance

to demonstrate

to emphasize

to enumerate

Some of these transition words ( thus, then, accordingly, consequently, therefore, henceforth ) are time words that are used to show that after a particular time there was a consequence or an effect .

Note that for and because are placed before the cause/reason. The other devices are placed before the consequences or effects.

as a result

under those circumstances

in that case

because the

consequently

accordingly

These transition words and phrases conclude , summarize and / or restate ideas, or indicate a final general statement . Also some words (like therefore ) from the Effect / Consequence category can be used to summarize.

as can be seen

generally speaking

in the final analysis

all things considered

as shown above

in the long run

given these points

as has been noted

for the most part

in conclusion

to summarize

by and large

on the whole

in any event

in either case

These transitional words (like finally ) have the function of limiting, restricting, and defining time . They can be used either alone or as part of adverbial expressions .

at the present time

from time to time

sooner or later

up to the present time

to begin with

in due time

in the meantime

in a moment

without delay

all of a sudden

at this instant

first, second

immediately

straightaway

by the time

occasionally

Many transition words in the time category ( consequently; first, second, third; further; hence; henceforth; since; then, when; and whenever ) have other uses.

Except for the numbers ( first, second, third ) and further they add a meaning of time in expressing conditions, qualifications, or reasons. The numbers are also used to add information or list examples . Further is also used to indicate added space as well as added time.

These transition words are often used as part of adverbial expressions and have the function to restrict, limit or qualify space . Quite a few of these are also found in the Time category and can be used to describe spatial order or spatial reference.

in the middle

to the left/right

in front of

on this side

in the distance

here and there

in the foreground

in the background

in the center of

adjacent to

opposite to

List of Transition Words

Transition Words are also sometimes called (or put in the category of) Connecting Words. Please feel free to download them via this link to the category page: Linking Words & Connecting Words as a PDF. It contains all the transition words listed on this site. The image to the left gives you an impression how it looks like.

Usage of Transition Words in Essays

Transition words and phrases are vital devices for essays , papers or other literary compositions. They improve the connections and transitions between sentences and paragraphs. They thus give the text a logical organization and structure (see also: a List of Synonyms ).

All English transition words and phrases (sometimes also called 'conjunctive adverbs') do the same work as coordinating conjunctions : they connect two words, phrases or clauses together and thus the text is easier to read and the coherence is improved.

Usage: transition words are used with a special rule for punctuation : a semicolon or a period is used after the first 'sentence', and a comma is almost always used to set off the transition word from the second 'sentence'.

Example 1: People use 43 muscles when they frown; however, they use only 28 muscles when they smile.

Example 2: however, transition words can also be placed at the beginning of a new paragraph or sentence - not only to indicate a step forward in the reasoning, but also to relate the new material to the preceding thoughts..

Use a semicolon to connect sentences, only if the group of words on either side of the semicolon is a complete sentence each (both must have a subject and a verb, and could thus stand alone as a complete thought).

Further helpful readings about expressions, writing and grammar: Compilation of Writing Tips How to write good ¦ Correct Spelling Study by an English University

Are you using WORD for writing professional texts and essays? There are many easy Windows Shortcuts available which work (almost) system-wide (e.g. in every programm you use).

Transition Words to Start a Paragraph | Full List

Imagine your writing as a river. Smooth, seamless transitions from one idea to the next are what keep this river flowing, engaging readers with every turn. This fluid journey is powered by something surprisingly simple yet transformative: transition words. These linguistic keys unlock the flow of thought, turning choppy sentences into a coherent, compelling narrative.

Why are transition words so crucial? In the realm of academic essays, storytelling, and all forms of written communication, they’re the threads that weave individual ideas into a rich tapestry of argument and narrative. Without them, writing feels disjointed, difficult to follow.

This article is your map to mastering these vital elements. We’ll explore the vast landscape of transition words, from the basics to advanced connectors, categorized for easy understanding and use. Embark on this journey with us to refine your writing, ensuring it captivates and flows with the grace of a well-guided river.

What Are Transition Words?

Transition words are those special words and phrases designed to link your ideas together smoothly, guiding your readers from one thought to another. They serve as bridges, ensuring your writing flows naturally and logically. For instance, words like “however,” “moreover,” and “therefore” signal to your readers that you’re either contrasting an earlier idea, adding to it, or concluding from it. Consider the difference in clarity between these two versions of a text:

Without Transition Words: “Many argue that climate change is a hoax. There is overwhelming scientific evidence to the contrary.”
With Transition Words: “Many argue that climate change is a hoax. However, there is overwhelming scientific evidence to the contrary.”

The use of “however” smoothly transitions the reader from one contrasting viewpoint to another, enhancing understanding and flow.

Types of Transitions

Transition words can be categorized into several types based on the relationship they signal between ideas. Here’s a brief overview:

Additive Transitions: These words add information or ideas. Examples include “furthermore,” “moreover,” and “in addition.” They help in building up arguments or adding to the discussion.
Contrastive Transitions: Words like “however,” “on the contrary,” and “nevertheless” indicate a contrast or disagreement between ideas. They are crucial for presenting alternate viewpoints or counterarguments.
Causal Transitions: These transitions indicate cause-and-effect relationships. Words such as “therefore,” “thus,” and “as a result” are used to show the outcome of a situation.
Temporal Transitions: When you need to sequence events or indicate timing, temporal transitions like “firstly,” “subsequently,” and “finally” are your go-to choices.
Exemplification Transitions: To introduce examples or illustrate a point, words like “for instance,” “in particular,” and “such as” are incredibly useful.

When to Use Transition Words?

Understanding when to use transition words is just as important as knowing which ones to use. Here’s when they become particularly important:

At the Beginning of Paragraphs: Starting a paragraph with a transition word can signal a shift in focus or introduce a new line of thinking. It’s like telling your reader, “Now, let’s take a turn.”
Between Ideas: Within paragraphs, transitions help weave your sentences together, making your argument or narrative stronger and more coherent.
To Indicate Shifts: Whether it’s a change in time, a move from a general to a specific point, or a logical progression of thought, transition words guide your reader through your writing seamlessly, preventing any confusion or abruptness.

Incorporating transition words thoughtfully enhances the readability and persuasiveness of your writing. It encourages a deeper engagement with your text, allowing your readers to follow along with your ideas effortlessly.

List of Transition Words to Start a Paragraph

Furthermore
Additionally
In addition
In addition to
Not only… but also

Contrast/Comparison

On the contrary
Nevertheless
On the other hand
In contrast
In the same way

Cause and Effect

Consequently
As a result

Sequence/Order

Firstly/First
Subsequently

Example/Illustration

For instance
In particular
For example
To illustrate
Specifically
Importantly
Particularly

Conclusion/Summary

In conclusion
To summarize
To conclude

Clarification/Explanation

That is to say
In other words

How to Use Transition Words to Start a Paragraph Correctly

Transition words are invaluable in crafting seamless and engaging writing, guiding your readers through your narrative or argument. However, their misuse can lead to confusion or a disjointed reading experience. Here are tips on using transition words effectively, ensuring your writing remains clear and compelling.

Selecting the Appropriate Transition Word

Understand the Relationship: First, identify the relationship between the ideas or sections you want to connect. Are you adding information, showing contrast, illustrating a point, or demonstrating cause and effect? Selecting the correct type of transition word is crucial to accurately convey the relationship.
Consider the Tone and Flow: The transition word should match the tone of your writing and maintain the flow of ideas. Formal writing may require different transitions than informal writing or creative storytelling.
Use Variety Wisely: While it’s important to vary your transition words to keep your writing interesting, make sure the words you choose still accurately reflect the relationships between ideas.

Avoiding Repetition and Overuse

Be Concise: Use transition words sparingly and only when they add clarity or meaning to your writing. Unnecessary transitions can distract the reader and make your text feel overwrought.
Repetition is Not Always Key: Repeating the same transition word can become monotonous and may detract from your writing’s impact. Instead, use a variety of transitions that still align with the idea you’re conveying.
Read Aloud: To catch overuse or repetitive use of transition words, read your work aloud. This can help you notice if the flow feels natural or if certain transitions are overused or unnecessary.

Tips for Practicing Transition Words

Mastering the use of transition words is key to elevating one’s writing from simple statements to a nuanced and persuasive narrative. Here are some practical exercises and activities designed to help students incorporate transition words into their writing more naturally and to recognize their power in texts by experienced writers.

Writing Exercises and Activities

Paragraph Rewrite: Take a paragraph from a recent essay or assignment and remove all beginning transition words. Then, rewrite the paragraph, adding different transition words and phrases that enhance the flow of ideas. This exercise encourages experimentation with various transitions to see their effect on the coherence of the text.
Transition Word Challenge: Assign a writing prompt and challenge students to use a specific number of different transition words in their response. This can be a fun way to encourage the use of varied transitions and to push students to think creatively about how they connect their ideas.
Sentence Starters: Provide students with a list of transition words and phrases. Ask them to write sentences starting with each transition, focusing on different relationships between ideas (contrast, addition, cause and effect, etc.). This exercise helps students think about how transitions guide the direction of their thoughts and arguments.
Peer Review with a Twist: During peer review sessions, ask students to specifically focus on the use of transition words in each other’s writing. They can suggest alternative transitions or spots where a transition could enhance clarity or flow.

Identifying Transition Words in Reading Materials

Transition Word Hunt: While reading a piece of professional writing (articles, essays, book chapters), students highlight or note down the transition words and phrases they find. Discuss as a class or in groups the purpose of these transitions and how they contribute to the overall effectiveness of the writing.
Comparative Reading: Provide two versions of a text, one with transition words and one without (or with fewer transitions). Ask students to compare the readability and coherence of the two texts. This activity can highlight the impact of well-placed transitions on the clarity and persuasiveness of an argument.
Creating a Transition Word Journal: Encourage students to keep a journal or list of transition words and phrases they encounter in their reading, along with examples of how they are used. This practice not only builds their vocabulary but also helps them see the variety and versatility of transition words in different contexts.

Final Words About Beginning Paragraph Transition Words

In this article, we’ve explored the significance of transition words, the different types available, and the nuances of their use to enhance writing clarity and engagement. These linguistic bridges are essential for guiding readers through your narrative or argument seamlessly.

I encourage you to experiment with various transition words in your writing projects. Practice is key to mastering their use and improving your writing’s flow. For further study, resources like the Purdue OWL provide excellent guides on transitions and other writing skills. Embrace the journey of refining your writing, one transition at a time.

Nicole Hardy

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Nicole Hardy is renowned in the fields of education and the arts journalism, particularly known for her detailed and insightful reporting on performing arts education. With a career spanning over a decade, she has established herself as a respected authority in this area. Hardy’s work is recognized for its in-depth analysis and engaging writing style. She holds a Master’s degree in Journalism from the University of Arts, specializing in arts and culture journalism.

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105 Best Words To Start A Paragraph

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words to start a paragraph, explained below

The first words of a paragraph are crucial as they set the tone and inform the reader about the content that follows.

Known as the ‘topic’ sentence, the first sentence of the paragraph should clearly convey the paragraph’s main idea.

This article presents a comprehensive list of the best words to start a paragraph, be it the first, second, third, or concluding paragraph.

Words to Start an Introduction Paragraph

The words you choose for starting an essay should establish the context, importance, or conflict of your topic.

The purpose of an introduction is to provide the reader with a clear understanding of the topic, its significance, and the structure of the ensuing discussion or argument.

Students often struggle to think of ways to start introductions because they may feel overwhelmed by the need to effectively summarize and contextualize their topic, capture the reader’s interest, and provide a roadmap for the rest of the paper, all while trying to create a strong first impression.

Choose one of these example words to start an introduction to get yourself started:

The debate surrounding [topic]…
[Topic] has garnered attention due to…
Exploring the complexities of [topic]…
The significance of [topic] lies in…
Over the past decade, [topic] has…
The critical question of [topic]…
As society grapples with [topic]…
The rapidly evolving landscape of [topic]…
A closer examination of [topic] reveals…
The ongoing conversation around [topic]…

Don’t Miss my Article: 33 Words to Avoid in an Essay

Words to Start a Body Paragraph

The purpose of a body paragraph in an essay is to develop and support the main argument, presenting evidence, examples, and analysis that contribute to the overall thesis.

Students may struggle to think of ways to start body paragraphs because they need to find appropriate transition words or phrases that seamlessly connect the paragraphs, while also introducing a new idea or evidence that builds on the previous points.

This can be challenging, as students must carefully balance the need for continuity and logical flow with the introduction of fresh perspectives.

Try some of these paragraph starters if you’re stuck:

Building upon previous research…
As [source] suggests, [topic]…
Analyzing [topic] through [theory]…
Considering the impact of [policy]…
Delving deeper into [topic]…
Drawing from [author]’s findings…
[Topic] intersects with [related topic]…
Contrary to popular belief, [topic]…
The historical context of [topic]…
Addressing the challenges of [topic]…

Words to Start a Conclusion Paragraph

The conclusion paragraph wraps up your essay and leaves a lasting impression on the reader.

It should convincingly summarize your thesis and main points. For more tips on writing a compelling conclusion, consider the following examples of ways to say “in conclusion”:

In summary, [topic] demonstrates…
The evidence overwhelmingly suggests…
Taking all factors into account…
In light of the analysis, [topic]…
Ultimately, [topic] plays a crucial role…
In light of these findings…
Weighing the pros and cons of [topic]…
By synthesizing the key points…
The interplay of factors in [topic]…
[Topic] leaves us with important implications…

Complete List of Transition Words

Above, I’ve provided 30 different examples of phrases you can copy and paste to get started on your paragraphs.

Let’s finish strong with a comprehensive list of transition words you can mix and match to start any paragraph you want:

Secondly, …
In addition, …
Furthermore, …
Moreover, …
On the other hand, …
In contrast, …
Conversely, …
Despite this, …
Nevertheless, …
Although, …
As a result, …
Consequently, …
Therefore, …
Additionally, …
Simultaneously, …
Meanwhile, …
In comparison, …
Comparatively, …
As previously mentioned, …
For instance, …
For example, …
Specifically, …
In particular, …
Significantly, …
Interestingly, …
Surprisingly, …
Importantly, …
According to [source], …
As [source] states, …
As [source] suggests, …
In the context of, …
In light of, …
Taking into consideration, …
Given that, …
Considering the fact that, …
Bearing in mind, …
To illustrate, …
To demonstrate, …
To clarify, …
To put it simply, …
In other words, …
To reiterate, …
As a matter of fact, …
Undoubtedly, …
Unquestionably, …
Without a doubt, …
It is worth noting that, …
One could argue that, …
It is essential to highlight, …
It is important to emphasize, …
It is crucial to mention, …
When examining, …
In terms of, …
With regards to, …
In relation to, …
As a consequence, …
As an illustration, …
As evidence, …
Based on [source], …
Building upon, …
By the same token, …
In the same vein, …
In support of this, …
In line with, …
To further support, …
To substantiate, …
To provide context, …
To put this into perspective, …

Tip: Use Right-Branching Sentences to Start your Paragraphs

Sentences should have the key information front-loaded. This makes them easier to read. So, start your sentence with the key information!

To understand this, you need to understand two contrasting types of sentences:

Left-branching sentences , also known as front-loaded sentences, begin with the main subject and verb, followed by modifiers, additional information, or clauses.
Right-branching sentences , or back-loaded sentences, start with modifiers, introductory phrases, or clauses, leading to the main subject and verb later in the sentence.

In academic writing, left-branching or front-loaded sentences are generally considered easier to read and more authoritative.

This is because they present the core information—the subject and the verb—at the beginning, making it easier for readers to understand the main point of the sentence.

Front-loading also creates a clear and straightforward sentence structure, which is preferred in academic writing for its clarity and conciseness.

Right-branching or back-loaded sentences, with their more complex and sometimes convoluted structure, can be more challenging for readers to follow and may lead to confusion or misinterpretation.

Take these examples where I’ve highlighted the subject of the sentence in bold. Note that in the right-branching sentences, the topic is front-loaded.

Right Branching: Researchers found a strong correlation between sleep and cognitive function after analyzing the data from various studies.
Left-Branching: After analyzing the data from various studies, a strong correlation between sleep and cognitive function was found by researchers.
The novel was filled with vivid imagery and thought-provoking themes , which captivated the audience from the very first chapter.
Captivating the audience from the very first chapter, the novel was filled with vivid imagery and thought-provoking themes.

The words you choose to start a paragraph are crucial for setting the tone, establishing context, and ensuring a smooth flow throughout your essay.

By carefully selecting the best words for each type of paragraph, you can create a coherent, engaging, and persuasive piece of writing.

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Transition Words for Essays

When writing an essay , it is essential to use transition words so that your ideas flow smoothly. A transition word can also be called a linking word. They help create coherence by indicating relationships between paragraphs and sections of your essay and linking them together.

Why are transition words important and what is their purpose?

Transitional words provide a powerful tool for organizing the flow of your paper. They help to create a connection between ideas, give meaning to shifts in order and focus, and enable readers to contextualize and understand your argument in a more effective manner.

Good transition words can turn choppy sentences into smooth-flowing prose which improves comprehension. In contrast, bad or nonexistent transition words will make the flow of thoughts sound stilted and difficult to parse.

Are transition words and conjunctions the same?

No, a conjunction and a transition word are not the same. Conjunctions are primarily used to combine two separate sentences or clauses into one thought. Transition words, on the other hand, are used to link certain ideas within a single sentence or across multiple sentences.

While conjunctions may be applied as transitions under certain circumstances (e.g., “however,” “and,” etc.), they are not interchangeable with transition words when it comes to building seamless bridges between thoughts and improving the cohesion of a text.

To learn more about word choice in essays in general, we suggest reading our separate article: Words to Use in Academic Writing

How Transition Words Work

To really understand the power of transition words to enhance an essay and move it from one idea to another, it’s vital that you know what they are and how they work. Transitional words and phrases provide a critical link between ideas, blending them together into an orderly flow that is easy for your reader to comprehend. Used correctly, transitions can be a powerful tool for improving your paper’s structure and boosting its readability.

A transition is a word, phrase, or sentence that connects two paragraphs or sections of your essay. Transition words help readers understand the logical connection between the ideas in your essay.

For example, if you are discussing the use of color in a work of art, you might use the following transition: “However, when used excessively, color can be overwhelming.” This transition signals to the reader that you are changing the focus of your discussion from the use of color to its effects.

How and Where to Use Transition Words?

Now that you know the basic principles, let’s look at three main transition types based on where and how you use them in writing.

1. Between sections: These transitions are usually used in longer pieces. In such cases, an entire paragraph might be used as a transition to summarize the previous part before moving on to the next section.

2. Between paragraphs: If you have arranged your paragraphs effectively, the transition emphasizes the logical connections between them. This can take the form of a word or two (e.g., however, for example, similarly, by the same token) or a phrase or sentence at the beginning and/or end of each paragraph. By summarizing the preceding paragraph and hinting at what is to come in the next one, transitions create a smooth flow between ideas.

3. Between sentences: These transition words and phrases are usually used to connect two main ideas in different sentences. In such cases, it is typically one word or a short phrase, such as “however,” “in addition,” or “as a result.”

Remember that these transitions do not always have to be used at the beginning or end of a paragraph. In fact, they can be used anywhere in your essay to move from one idea to another.

Examples of Transitional Words and Phrases

The list of words below is far from exhaustive, but it will give you some transition words and phrases to help you get started. Also, remember that words can have different shades of meaning, so make sure to consult a dictionary if you are unsure.

Transition words by their overall purpose

Addition: and, in addition to, moreover, first, second, finally, also, too, as well, in fact, equally important.
Cause-Effect : therefore, thus, as a result, consequently, due to, then, accordingly, resulting in, because of, hence.
Chronology: at first, to begin with, presently, in the meantime, afterward, finally, meanwhile, during, earlier, later.
Clarification: in other words, that is to say, namely, to put it differently, that is, in simple terms, to rephrase it.
Comparison: similarly, likewise, in the same way, just as, in a similar way\manner\fashion.
Concession: even though, despite, in spite of, notwithstanding, yet, still, however, nevertheless, regardless.
Condition: if, provided that, on condition that, unless, in case, granted that, given that.
Contrast: but, on the other hand, however, alternatively, while, whereas, though, in contrast, on the contrary.
Emphasis: above all, indeed, most important, primarily, certainly, surely, in fact, still, by all means.
Example: for instance, to illustrate, in other words, specifically, such as, that is to say, take the case of.
Limitation: except for, unless, up to, not exceeding, save for, although this may be true, then again, in reality.
Location: nearby, beyond, adjacent to, opposite of, upstairs/downstairs, in the front/back, here, there
Opinion: in my opinion, to my way of thinking, it seems to me that, from where I stand, I am. convinced that, it is my belief that.
Order: firstly, secondly, last but not least, in conclusion, for one thing… for another, finally.
Possibility: possibly, probably, most likely, it is conceivable that, it is doubtful that, it is unlikely that, with any luck.
Restatement: in other words, as has been noted, as shown above, to put it differently, that is to say.
Summary: to sum up, in conclusion, all in all, in brief, in sum, in essence, in summary, to summarize, all things considered, given all the above, overall, ultimately.
Time: at present, these days, presently, now, currently, lately, recently, at the same time, all at once, sooner or later, in due time, in the meantime, in a moment, after a while.

Transition words for argumentative essays

When writing an argumentative essay, you might use the following transition words and phrases:

However – introduces a contrasting idea
Nonetheless – emphasizes a point despite something else
Moreover – adds another relevant point
In addition – also introduces another key point
Furthermore – adds yet another relevant point
On the other hand – presents an opposing view
All in all – summarizes everything that has been said
As can be seen – points to compelling evidence that supports the key point
As a result – states the conclusion of the argument being made
In other words – presents the same idea in different words
To put it another way – also presents the same idea in different words
In the final analysis – states the overall conclusion of the argument being made
Another key concept is – introduce a new idea

Transition words for persuasive essays

Persuasive essays are written to convince the reader of an author’s point of view. To make a persuasive essay flow, it is important to use transition words or phrases to move from one idea to another in a smooth and logical way. Here are some highly effective transition words for persuasive writing:

Firstly – This word can be used at the beginning of your sentence when you introduce the first reason for your argument.
Furthermore – It is used to emphasize an additional point that supports your argument.
Moreover – This transition adds emphasis again, boosting the strength of your argument.
In addition – Use this when introducing additional evidence that strengthens your argument further.
Similarly – Use this word when discussing two similar points and help support your opinion.
On the other hand – This phrase can be used in conjunction with its opposite point of view before presenting yours in contrast to it.
Nevertheless – This transition confirms the importance of a particular point even if it differs from others previously made as part of the same argumentation chain.
Therefore – Use this word when drawing conclusions from previously discussed points and evidence you have provided in the persuasive essay.
Consequently – This transition shows that the results described are logical consequences derived from stated facts, ideas, happenings, or situations.
Finally – This phrase should be used at the end of a persuasive essay as a concluding statement that summarizes all main arguments made throughout the paper.

Transition words by their purpose within essays

Transition words are essential components of a well-written essay. They connect ideas, show relationships between them, and help the reader understand how each concept relates to another. Below are transitional words divided by purpose so that you can easily incorporate them into your essays.

First: to begin with, in the first place, first
Second: another reason why, pursuing this further, next
Third: lastly, finally, thirdly
Introduce evidence: for example, in other words, namely, specifically, to illustrate, in addition, in fact, as an illustration, more specifically, such as.
End a body paragraph: finally, in conclusion, in brief, on the whole, in any case, all things considered, given these points, to sum up.
Explain a quote: for example, in other words, namely, that is to say.
Enhance your argument: admittedly, granted, of course, naturally, absolutely, undoubtedly, unquestionably, equally important.
Introduce an opposite point: despite this, notwithstanding that, even so, in spite of, in defiance of
Conclude your essay : therefore, thus, as a result, consequently, due to this, hence, in other words, in summary.

Final Tips on Using Transition Words for Essays

Here are a few final tips to keep in mind when using transition words in your essay:

1. Don’t overuse transition words: Overusing them can make your writing seem choppy or unclear. So, be sure to use each transition word only when necessary and in key places.

2. Be consistent: Once you’ve decided which transition words to use, use them the same way throughout your essay. Consistency will make your writing flow better and make it more easily understandable for your reader.

3. Make sure they’re relevant: As with all writing, transition words should only be used if they are relevant to the topic at hand. You shouldn’t use them if they don’t add anything to your essay.

4. Plan ahead: Before you start writing, take a few minutes to plan out where you would transition and why. This will help your essay flow more smoothly and make it easier for your reader to follow your argument.

5. Practice: The best way to get better at using transition words is to practice using them. So, try writing a few essays with different transitions to get a feel for how they work. You can also ask a friend or family member to read your essay and point out any places where you could use transitional words.

6. Avoid sentence fragments: Using a transition word at the start of a sentence can lead to sentence fragments when misused. Try rewriting the sentence or adding more information to ensure the sentence is grammatically correct. For instance, “And thus the result.” is a fragment as it does not contain both a subject and a verb.

We hope this list of transition words for essays was helpful to you. If you have any questions or comments, please let us know.

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100 Transition Words for Essays: Essential Academic Writing!

Transition words for essays: words and phrases used in academic writing.

In academic writing, there are certain transition words and phrases that are used consistently. If a student is able to become familiar with these words and phrases, their academic writing will certainly improve faster and their comprehension of academic texts will increase.

Transition Words for Research Paper

Transition words within a paragraph, transition words and phrases.

Read more: 18 Powerful Websites to Improve Your Writing Skills in English Punctuation Marks – Quotation Marks – Question Mark

Explanation

Explanation gives readers the needed substance for learning about something new and extraordinary. You should not over-explain, as well as you should not under-explain. Find a balance in your academic writing.

“Don’t tell me the moon is shining; show me the glint of light on broken glass.” Anton Chekhov”

Sample Of Explanation

Transition words in addition: adding additional information to support a point.

It is never enough to give one line of thought to describe or support a claim. A claim is always weak if it is backed up in a one-sided way. That is why it is important to give a comprehensive view of your main topic to your readers.

Sample of Adding Additional Information to Support a Point

Transition words in addition to, transition words for demonstrating contrast, example of demonstrating contrast, transition words for contrast, transition words to start a paragraph: adding a proviso or acknowledging reservations.

Sometimes in academic papers, it is important to note the lack of what can be said in reference to either research or comprehensive understanding.

Example of Adding a Proviso

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45 Best Transition Words and Phrases For Essays

But how to make sure that everything ties together, and that you present your arguments in a logical, smooth manner? It’s simple. You do it by using transition words and phrases, which can turn your scattered thoughts into a well-organized, and neatly looking piece of prose. “Look on every exit as being an entrance somewhere else.” – Tom Stoppard It is common knowledge that the ability to write a great essay is tremendously helpful to those who are pursuing higher education. So, it wouldn’t hurt to add all the weapons you can find to your essay-writing arsenal, like these transition words.

What are transition words?

Here are the main rules for the usage of transitional words:, using transitional words in essays.

Your regular essay will comprise five paragraphs – an introduction, three paragraphs to present your points, and a conclusion. Your job is to make the prose consistent, and that’s why you need words and phrases to create links between the ideas. The words and phrases below are mostly used in persuasive (argumentative) essays where you need to convince the readers of your opinion confidently. But in fact, they’re useful in almost any type of writing (such as expository essays ) simply to keep the structure intact. If you use them well, they can emphasize contrast, highlight a similarity, and solidify your conclusion. Transition, a formal definition: the process of changing from one situation, form, or state to another.

Transition words are used at the beginning of each new paragraph. For Example:

They can also be used when you present a new point in the same paragraph. for example:, there’s a multitude of transition words that will contribute to a sleeker essay.

Many students make the mistake of repeating the same words repeatedly. This causes them to lose impact and meaning. Among grammarians, this phenomenon is called grammar saturation. The important thing to know is that there are several categories to transition words depending on the type of impact you’d like to create in your writing . Often, there are several words suitable for one transition. Just remember that they don’t always mean the same and you might need some practice to recognize the subtle differences between them. To avoid this, look up synonyms and never use the same transition word more than once in a single piece of prose (especially in the same paragraph). If you need a more in-depth course on this topic, you may read A Writer’s Guide To Transitional Words and Expressions.

Here’s a list of the best transition words that’ll come to your rescue:

When you want to indicate similarity or addition:, examples of use:, when you want to indicate dissimilarity, contrast, or contradiction:, when you want to indicate similarity:, when you want to indicate cause, effect, purpose, consequence, or result:, when you want to emphasize something:, when you want to indicate the time or sequence of events:, when you want to indicate spatial order or reference:, how do these words relate to the format of your essay, introductory transitions.

These come in handy when you craft your first supporting paragraph (the one after the introductory one). Here you usually start building on your thesis and start giving arguments in its favor.

Words to use in an introductory paragraph:

Connecting the second paragraph to the third:, connecting the third paragraph to the fourth:, connecting the body to the conclusion:.

Pro tip: Words like ‘for’, ‘and’, ‘nor’, ‘but’, ‘or’, ‘yet’, and ‘since’ shouldn’t be used at the beginning of a sentence if you’re writing a formal essay. “The best part of your story is when it changes.” – Bella Bloom Bonus material – a printable PDF chart with link words (always keep it beside you): A complete list of transition words and conjunctions.

Now it’s your turn to use these transition words

Starting an essay is always challenging, even for advanced writers. Hopefully, by reading this article, I made your task easier by adding a valuable tool to your writer’s toolbox. Just remember to use these phrases originally, and without repetition. The last thing you want to do is to sound mechanical as if you’re writing from a template. Next up, you may want to check a list of amazing short pretty words in English .

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Transition Words for Essays

What are Transition Words and how Do I use Transition Words for Essays? Transition words and phrases help make your essay flow smoothly from paragraph to paragraph. You can use them at the ends and beginnings of paragraphs, as well as in your introduction and conclusion. Transition words and phrases can be used in every type of essay, but they are most appropriate in expository or argumentative essays in which it’s important to present your ideas in a clear, logical flow. Read on for more insight into transition words for essays, including lists, examples and descriptions of how to use them in your writing.

Transition Words for Essays that Compare and Contrast

Comparison and contrast transition words are obviously helpful when writing a compare/contrast essay, but you can also use them to compare two different pieces of information in an expository or argumentative essay. You may also use comparison and contrast transition words to contrast two different experiences in a narrative essay or to compare two different people, places or objects in a descriptive essay.

Here are some of the most common comparison transition words for essays, followed by examples:

in the same way

Comparison Transition Words for Essays, sentence examples:

In the same way , Dr. Martin Luther King’s speech inspired a generation.
Similarly , my vacation to the beach was also peaceful and fun, just like my week at summer camp.

Here are some of the most common contrast transition words for essays, followed by examples:

in spite of
on the one hand/on the other hand
in contrast
on the contrary

Contrast Transition Words for Essays, sentence examples:

However , this delicious breakfast was not as memorable as the dinner my family shared that evening.
In contrast , my grandmother is always cracking jokes while my grandfather stays serious.

Sequence/Order Transition Words for Essays

Sequence words are especially important in narrative essays, where you must guide your reader through the events of your story. Sequence words can be used at the start of each paragraph to clearly mark out what happened first, next and so on. In addition, you can also use sequence transition words for essays that are informational and communicate historical events. It is also helpful to use sequence transition words for essays where you are writing about a book or movie and need to briefly summarize the plot. Here are some sequence/ordering words, followed by examples:

First , my mom dropped me off at school that fateful morning.
Then , I saw an unbelievable sight!
Finally , the zookeepers showed up and led the baby elephant into the back of a hay-filled truck.

Transition Word for Essays Examples

Example transition words can help you provide evidence in argumentative essays and add interesting detail in descriptive and narrative essays. There are many different kinds of example words and phrases you can use to keep your writing interesting and avoid repetition in a longer essay. Here are some of the most common example transition words for essays:

for example
for instance
specifically
to illustrate

Here are some additional example transition words for essays you may use in your writing, followed by examples:

additionally
equally important
furthermore
in addition
For example , one study explained that students who participate in extracurricular activities have a higher overall homework completion rate.
Furthermore , engagement in nonacademic activities has been shown to increase confidence in children between the ages of 11 and 14.

Conclusion Transition Words for Essays

Conclusion words help signal to the reader that you are coming to the end of your essay. A strong conclusion paragraph will begin with a clear conclusion word or phrase that will help to sum up your overall points. Here are some of the most common conclusion words and phrases, followed by examples:

in conclusion
on the whole
to conclude
to summarize
In conclusion , school uniforms can help improve students’ focus in the middle school classroom.
In sum , voting is an important part of our democracy and something we shouldn’t take for granted.

Learn more about Transition Words

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30 Topic Sentence Examples

June 24, 2024

What is an essay without a topic sentence? Well, confusion. In your writing, the topic sentence introduces what the paragraph will be about. It should cover the topic of the paragraph and the prime focus of what you want to discuss in the next several lines. And it can assist in smoothly transitioning into the next paragraph, the next point you’re about to make. Depending on the complexity of your argument, the topic sentence can also weave together several paragraphs. So when the topic sentence is missing, it’s easy to lose track of what your specific message is. Below, you find 30 topic sentence examples.

Think of the topic sentence as a tool in your writing kit. It’s there to help you signpost and structure the argument of your essay. Having it, while making sure the topic is interesting and clear, is essential to help your reader truly understand your thesis.

How do you write a topic sentence?

When you’re about to write an essay, you won’t find yourself immediately thinking of every topic sentence example at once. Figuring out what your thesis is going to be, the very purpose and argument of your essay, will be a necessary first step . Then you might want to create an outline . The outline can draft out what you want to cover in each paragraph or how your argument will be supported.

This is where the topic sentence comes in. For every paragraph, you can begin to think of topic sentence examples that best sum up the rest of your idea. The more interesting you can make the topic sentence, the better it will be, so long as you can support it. Remember, the topic sentence will introduce what you are going to discuss and expand on in the rest of the paragraph.

Examples (Continued)

Let’s take a look at these six topic sentence examples below that introduce a paragraph:

1) Studies over the last ten years have shown that the use of social media has a significant role in teenage mental health.

2) Kate Jackson and her family, who have all been San Francisco residents for 30 years, noted that this was the hottest summer yet.

3) Book sales across the country have actually increased this year, contrary to popular belief.

4) During COVID-19, people rushed to adopt pets, but after the pandemic ended many of those pets were surrendered to shelters.

5) It is undeniable what impact the meat industry has had on our environment.

6) In the 19th century in France, the creation of the Braille system was a significant turning point for those with disabilities.

How do you imagine the rest of the paragraph will turn out? How can you best support your topic sentence to strengthen your overall essay?

Support your paragraph with evidence

The topic sentence of your paragraph will not hold well if it is not backed up with the right evidence. After writing a topic sentence like the topic sentence examples above, the rest of your paragraph should include strong examples of evidence to support your argument. Doing so will only help validate your topic sentence and allow your reader to have more insight into your thesis.

Considering each topic sentence examples above, try to think of what types of evidence you would expect in that same paragraph. There could be reports on statistics, interviews, and other forms of evidence provided. How will yours be?

Where should the topic sentence go?

Now you know that your topic sentence should be followed by the right evidence. So it’s safe to assume that the topic sentence belongs at the very beginning of the paragraph.

Yet depending on the paragraph you’re working on, you can also place your “main” topic sentence after an “intro” topic sentence. Let’s take a look at the two examples below:

7) Due to rising temperatures around the world, people have had to flee their homes and relocate to areas less prone to fires or floods. (Intro topic sentence)

8) However, many have found that even these “safer” locations are still susceptible to eventual natural disasters. (Main topic sentence)

When we combine the two sentences, we get:

Due to rising temperatures around the world, people have had to flee their homes and relocate to areas less prone to fires or floods. However, many have found that even these “safer” locations are still susceptible to eventual natural disasters.

The first (intro) topic sentence example is more generic and introductory, functioning like a summary of an observation. The second (main) topic sentence example then presents another contradictory argument to that first point. Depending on the tone or argument you want to make in your paragraph, you can format your topic sentences in such a way to further sharpen your thesis. Whenever you have doubt though, you can always place one topic sentence at the beginning of the paragraph.

Sometimes less is more in writing the topic sentence

The topic sentence introduces the key concept of that paragraph, along with evidence and research findings. It can even be written as more than one sentence or perspective, as noted directly above. However, you also don’t want to say too much. Why?

You don’t want to give all of your information away at once. While it is imperative to write a clear, specific, and even complex topic sentence, it’s just as important to avoid being too general or too informative. Striking the right balance is going to help you structure the rest of your essay. After all, you have the rest of the paragraph and the rest of your essay to do that, which leads us to our next point.

Topic sentences for smoother transitions

Like a game of dominoes, your paragraphs are all connected and should flow smoothly into the next statement you are making. As you are building your outline, or even as you’re already writing, consider how your previous paragraph transitions into the next . This depends on the intention of each paragraph and how you are structuring your argument.

Topic sentences for paragraph transitions have many functions. They will elaborate on more examples. They can wrap up or summarize a preceding point you made, providing another perspective. Also, they can go against a fact or opinion you wrote, which is a great way to strengthen your overall thesis and they can also be posed as a question.

Take a look at these transitional topic sentence examples below:

9) In fact, walking as a form of exercise has shown to reduce cortisol levels.

10) Furthermore, city council representatives have said that environmental sustainability has remained at the top of the agenda, but activists have largely disagreed.

11) While the strike in Hollywood has come to an end, many writers are still without employment and searching for new ways to restart their careers.

12) However, grocery prices across the country still seem to have risen.

13) Despite the state’s discontinued funding for the arts, is there another feasible way for these students to gather together and flourish as young artists at their school?

More than one paragraph: Topic sentences that expand into several key points

So far we’ve covered topic sentences that elaborate on just one paragraph. However, you might find that one topic sentence (or two) can best address several paragraphs. This usually occurs when you’re trying to introduce a bigger argument to serve your essay.

Let’s take one of the single paragraph topic sentences from earlier above and expand it by adding a connecting topic sentence to it:

14)Book sales across the country have actually increased this year, contrary to popular belief.

15) A report from the Association of American Publishers’ StatShot program states that in April sales over a year there has been an 18% increase.

These two topic sentence examples can even serve as their own introductory paragraph. This can then lead into more paragraphs related to the topic of specific book sales increasing across the country:

Book sales across the country have actually increased this year, contrary to popular belief. A report from the Association of American Publishers’ StatShot program states that in April sales over a year there has been an 18% increase.

Make the topic sentence interesting, not obvious

Check out 15 more topic sentence examples below. How do they introduce the topic, and what does it make you want to learn more about? You can imagine what kind of paragraph, or paragraphs, might follow afterwards:

16) When brewed correctly, coffee can hold strong, subtle hints of flavors such as chocolate or fruit, depending on the level of acidity.

17) Although today life in 1920s Paris is often romanticized for its glamor, jazz, and fashion, the city was still struggling to recover from the devastation of World War I.

18) Strict social rules dominated the Victorian Era, despite Britain’s expansion around the world in pursuit of wealth and power.

19) Dogs have a keen sense of time, so much so that they can predict when you’re late to take them out for a walk.

20) Before winter arrives, birds such as cranes and waterfowl follow preferred aerial pathways during their yearly migrations.

21) Conservation methods have helped local farms in their efforts to prioritize sustainability.

22) Did you know that humans would have a better chance of reaching Mars if they had a base set up on the moon?

23) The Pacific Ocean covers more than 30 percent of the earth’s surface, and it is home to so many life forms that have not yet been studied.

24) It is often debated whether or not student athletes should be paid for their performance, considering the cost for them to succeed.

25) Becoming a successful CEO doesn’t just happen overnight.

26) Although purchasing a home is considered a great form of investment, potential buyers should look at the real estate market first.

27) Watching my mother work three jobs to support our family has taught me the importance of resilience and strong work ethic.

28) Historical fiction not only has the power to teach us of actual past events. It also allows us to step into the lives of those we would have never met.

29) Parents and teachers at Sunnyroad School District are advocating for schools to provide free computers for their students – but the administrators aren’t so sure.

30) Across the country, the debate around whether teenagers should be allowed to use smart phones on campus has been circulating.

The topic sentence as a guide

One way to look at topic sentences is to imagine them as guiding compasses of your essay. Whatever point you are trying to make, the topic sentence has the power to guide your reader down a certain path. Choose wisely! And if you’re ever unsure about how to steer your essay and you need a personal guide, we’re here to help .

Additional Resources

100 Creative Writing Prompts for Middle & High School
100 Tone Words to Express Mood in Your Writing
160 Good Argumentative Essay Topics for Students in 2024
How to Write the AP Lang Rhetorical Analysis Essay (With Example)
How to Write the AP Lang Argument Essay (With Example)
400 Adjectives to Describe a Person
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Essential Guide to Mastering Conclusion Transitions Words and Phrases

by Kayleen Lares | Jun 24, 2024 | Student Guide | 0 comments

Table of Contents

What are Conclusion Transitions?

Conclusion transitions indicate the end of an essay. They help brief the main points and link them back to the thesis statement. It also provides a smooth transition from the body paragraphs to the conclusion. This allows the reader to understand the final analysis.

In conclusion, such transitional phrases are essential for wrapping up your ideas. It also help to leave a lasting impression on the reader. They help create a sense of closure in your writing.

Importance of Transition Words in Conclusion Paragraphs

Transition words maintain a flow in your writing. In conclusion paragraphs, these words help summarize the main points. It also makes a smooth transition to the final thoughts. By using transition words effectively, you can ensure that your conclusion is straightforward and impactful.

Moreover, transition words help emphasize key points and signal the end of your argument. They guide the reader through your essay and highlight the significance of your concluding statements.

Examples of How Transitions Help the Flow in an Essay

Transition words not only improve the flow of your essay. It also helps maintain the reader’s engagement. For instance, phrases like “despite” can provide contrast. It can also help highlight essential points. You can make sure that your writing is easy to follow By using these transitional words effectively.

Furthermore, transition words like “therefore” or “consequently” show an excellent logical flow of your ideas. It also makes your argument more persuasive. These examples illustrate how transitions can enhance the overall quality of your writing.

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Here Are The List Of Conclusion Transition Words You Can Use In Your Essays:

Types of transition words for conclusions, exploring different types of transitional phrases.

Transitional phrases come in various forms. It serves different purposes in conclusion paragraph transitions . Some phrases signal a conclusion. At the same time, others emphasize a point or introduce a contrasting idea. By exploring the different transitional phrases, you can choose the ones that best suit your writing. It can also help effectively conclude your essay.

It’s essential to select transition words that align with the tone. Also one should keep in mind the message of your essay. Whether you’re summarizing key points or introducing a new perspective, using the correct transitional phrases can significantly enhance the clarity. It can also cohere to your conclusion.

Using Cause and Effect Transitions in Conclusions

Cause and effect transition words are used for explaining the relationship between ideas or events in conclusion. Words like “because” or “since” help establish a logical connection between your arguments. This makes your conclusion more persuasive. By using cause-and-effect transitions effectively you can demonstrate the impact of your key points. This strengthens your overall argument. This strategic use of transitions can improve the writer’s ability to convey complex relationships and conclusions.

Moreover, cause-and-effect transitions provide a framework for understanding the consequences of your ideas. It also reinforces the relevance of your arguments. These transitions help create a cohesive narrative. It also guides the reader through the logical progression of your conclusion.

How to Link Ideas in Conclusion Paragraphs with Transition Words

Linking ideas in conclusion is essential for providing an effortless transition between different points. Transition words like “furthermore” or “similarly” can establish connections between key concepts. It can also reinforce the central theme of your essay. By using these transition words effectively, you can ensure that your conclusion is well structured.

In addition, linking ideas with transition words helps in clarifying the relationships between your arguments. It also ultimately strengthens the overall impact of your conclusion. These transitions help in smooth flow from the body to the final thoughts of your essay. Doing this ensures that your writing is both compelling and well-organized.

Tips for Effectively Using Conclusion Transitions

Strategies for writing good conclusion transition sentences.

When writing conclusion transition sentences, it’s essential to consider the overall flow of your essay. Start by briefing the main points and then your final thoughts. Use transition words like “in conclusion” or “therefore” to end your argument.

Furthermore, ensure that your conclusion transitions and conclusion starters align with the tone and purpose of your essay. By employing strategic transition sentences, you can leave a lasting impact on the reader. It also creates a conclusion that relates to the main writing idea.

Tips to Improve Body Paragraphs with Transitions words

Transition words help improve the understanding of body paragraphs. This structure can improve the margin of knowledge for the reader. By using transitional phrases you can establish a clear link between different points. This ensures a smooth transition between ideas. These transitions help in maintaining the logical flow of your arguments. It also guides the reader through your essay.

Additionally, using transition words between body paragraphs creates a good flow from one to another. This makes your writing more cohesive and easy to follow. By building your essay with transition words, you can improve the overall quality of writing. It also helps engage your audience more effectively.

Importance of Transition Phrases in Concluding Thoughts

Transition phrases are equally crucial in concluding thoughts as they help in summarizing key points. It also helps reinforce your main argument. Words like “in summary -” or “to conclude -” signal the end of your essay. It provides a sense of closure to your writing. By incorporating these transition phrases you can leave a lasting impression on the reader. It also emphasizes the significance of your final thoughts.

Moreover, transition phrases in concluding thoughts help in creating a coherent narrative that ties back to your thesis statement. Consulting a writing service, like take my online course , can also help writing a reasonable conclusion with good transition phrases. These phrases highlight the main takeaways of your essay. It also reinforces the central message, ensuring impactful and well-rounded conclusions. A reasonable conclusion will resonate with the reader. It will also strengthen the essay’s key arguments and insights.

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Examples of Conclusion Transition Words in Action

Showcasing how transitional words connect ideas in a thesis statement.

Transitional words play an essential role in connecting ideas in a thesis statement. It also guides the reader through the main argument. For instance, words like “furthermore” or “in addition” can emphasize key points. It can also help introduce new perspectives in the conclusion. By showcasing how transitional words connect ideas in a thesis statement can enhance the clarity of your writing.

Additionally, transitional words help in summarizing the main arguments. It also signals the end of your essay. Using transition words can create a compelling thesis statement that resonates with the reader.

Illustrating How Transition Phrases Summarize Key Points in a Paragraph

Transition phrases play a crucial role in summarizing key points. It provides a seamless transition between paragraphs. Phrases like “in summary” or “consequently” help in condensing the main arguments. It also helps link them back to the overall conclusion. By illustrating how transition phrases summarize key points ensure that your writing is impactful. Moreover, transition phrases enhance the coherence of your paragraphs. It guides the reader through the logical progress of the ideas. By incorporating it, create a well-structured paragraph that relates to the main themes of your essay. It also makes a good impression on the reader.

The Role of Transitional Phrases in Academic Writing

Transitional phrases is essential in academic writing. It improves the clarity of arguments. Words like “however” or “nevertheless” help introduce contrasting ideas. It also strengthens your overall argument. Understanding the role of transitional phrases in academic writing can create nuanced and persuasive essays. The writer’s understanding of these phrases, especially their usage in crafting a reasonable conclusion, is fundamental to academic success.

Furthermore, transitional phrases help in smooth transition of your essay. It makes it easier for the reader to follow your line of reasoning. Moreover, it can elevate the quality of your academic writing and demonstrate a strong command of transitional language.

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Conclusion Transitions Examples in Full Sentences

In summary, Lucy was a little girl who had a tendency to be messy and had very specific preferences. Despite her messy nature, she was quite choosy about certain things.
Finally, the tortoise showed the age-old adage that “slow & steady wins the race,” proving that constant effort and perseverance can lead to success.
All things considered, Belle found being locked in a castle with talking dishes and furniture a surprisingly positive experience. This unusual situation she experienced.
Ultimately, Jack must weigh the lessons of his beanstalk adventure to understand if it was truly worth the risks and challenges he faced.
In the final analysis, the third little pig displayed generosity and compassion by helping his lazy brothers, even though they had not shown the same level of effort and commitment in building their own homes.

Mistakes Writers Make with Conclusions Transitions Words

It is crucial to avoid common mistakes when writing conclusion. As this can divert from the overall impact of your piece. Here are some key points to keep in mind when using conclusion transition words:

Overusing “in conclusion”: While this phrase is a classic way to signal the end of your argument or discussion, using it in every sentence can make your conclusion seem repetitive.
Neglecting variety in transition words: Instead of relying solely on “in addition” or “therefore,” consider incorporating a range of transitions for conclusions to show the relationship between your ideas.
Failing to use full sentences: A conclusion sentence transition words should be well-structured and complete to effectively summarize your viewpoint. Avoid fragmentary phrases that may confuse the reader.
Forgetting to acknowledge opposing viewpoints: When wrapping up your discussion or argument, it’s important to acknowledge contrasting ideas and add transition words conclusio n that highlight the nuance of the debate

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54 Best Transition Words for Paragraphs (2024)
Good transition words for starting a paragraph include addition phrases like 'furthermore', cause and effect words like 'consequently', and contradiction words like 'however'. Scroll down for a full table of transition words. Using transition words in your writing can help you improve the readability and flow of your paragraph to the next.
33 Transition Words for Essays
33 Transition Words and Phrases. 'Besides,' 'furthermore,' 'although,' and other words to help you jump from one idea to the next. Transitional terms give writers the opportunity to prepare readers for a new idea, connecting the previous sentence to the next one. Many transitional words are nearly synonymous: words that broadly indicate that ...
Transition Words & Phrases
Archaic transition words. Words like "hereby," "therewith," and most others formed by the combination of "here," "there," or "where" with a preposition are typically avoided in modern academic writing. Using them makes your writing feel old-fashioned and strained and can sometimes obscure your meaning.
190 Good Transition Words for Essays
2) Comparative Transitions (Similarity) These transition words draw a parallel or bring out a similarity between images or ideas. They can be used not only in a straightforward sense but also to establish relations of similarity between objects or ideas that might appear to be dissonant. Similarly. Likewise.
220 Good Transition Words for Essays by Experts
Transition Words for Essays for First Body Paragraph. Here is a list of transition words that you can use for the first body paragraph of an essay: Firstly. To start off. Primarily. Another important factor is. To begin with. In the beginning. Above all.
A Complete List of 200+ Transition Words for Essays
This blog lists transition words for all essay types, ensuring smooth transitions & improved readability. Order. ... Transition Words/Phrases: Starting a Paragraph: Firstly, To begin with, Initially, In the first place: First Body Paragraph: Firstly, To start, To begin with, Initially:
Complete List of Transition Words
How to Practice Using Transition Words . In sum, use transition words and phrases judiciously to keep your paper moving, hold your readers' attention, and retain your audience until the final word.In practice, it's a good idea to rewrite some of the introductory sentences at the beginning and the transition statements at the end of every paragraph once you have completed the first draft of ...
Boost Your English Writing with These Top Transition Words to Start a
Examples of Transition Words. Here are some examples of transition words you can use to start a new paragraph: Type of Relationship. Transition Words. Addition. Additionally, Furthermore, Moreover, In addition, Besides. Contrast. However, Nevertheless, On the other hand, In contrast, Conversely. Conclusion.
70+ Transition words for essays with examples
Transition words for essays with examples. Here are examples of sentences using each of the transition words for cause: Additionally: "She enjoys playing the piano. Additionally, she is proficient in playing the guitar.". Furthermore: "The research indicated a positive correlation between exercise and mental health.
A List of 200+ Transition Words For Essays
Beginning Transition Words for Essays. These are some introduction transition words for essays to start writing: In the first place; First of all; To begin with; Generally; For the most part; On one hand; Similarly; By the way; Accordingly ; As a rule ; Paragraph Transition Words for Essays. Generally speaking; Earlier; To put it differently ...
Transition words and phrases: Examples and tips
Whether it's transition words between paragraphs, transition words at the start of a sentence, or those that stitch sentences together in a cohesive paragraph, you can't take these words for granted. ... Transition words make writing easy to read. All this talk about organization, logical structure, and good flow and clarity pool together ...
Transition Words (List for Essays, Paragraphs, and Writing)
They are commonly used as "linking words" that join two or more sentences, phrases, and paragraphs. Some common and widely used transition words in English include "also," "or," "therefore," and "thus.". There are various categories of transition words and writers can use them depending on the relationship between sentences.
Transition Words & Phrases
Usage of Transition Words in Essays. Transition words and phrases are vital devices for essays, papers or other literary compositions. They improve the connections and transitions between sentences and paragraphs. They thus give the text a logical organization and structure (see also: a List of Synonyms).
Full List of Transition Words to Start a Paragraph + Guide
Why are transition words so crucial? In the realm of academic essays, storytelling, and all forms of written communication, they're the threads that weave individual ideas into a rich tapestry of argument and narrative. Without them, writing feels disjointed, difficult to follow. This article is your map to mastering these vital elements.
105 Best Words To Start A Paragraph (2024)
Don't Miss my Article: 33 Words to Avoid in an Essay. Words to Start a Body Paragraph. The purpose of a body paragraph in an essay is to develop and support the main argument, presenting evidence, examples, and analysis that contribute to the overall thesis. ... Complete List of Transition Words.
Transition Words: Examples In Sentences, Paragraphs & Essays
The last thing you want is your transition words to feel trite and uninspired. Discover what these words are and a variety of examples for your writing here.
100+ Transition Words and Phrases to Use in Essays
A transition is a word, phrase, or sentence that connects two paragraphs or sections of your essay. Transition words help readers understand the logical connection between the ideas in your essay. ... Below are transitional words divided by purpose so that you can easily incorporate them into your essays. Start a body paragraph: first, second ...
100 Transition Words for Essays: Essential Academic Writing!
Find a balance in your academic writing. Knowing key transition phrases and words that will lead into your section for explanation is a great way to get a head start on making your essay well-rounded and in-depth. "Don't tell me the moon is shining; show me the glint of light on broken glass.". Anton Chekhov".
45 Best Transition Words and Phrases For Essays
All in all. Pro tip: Words like 'for', 'and', 'nor', 'but', 'or', 'yet', and 'since' shouldn't be used at the beginning of a sentence if you're writing a formal essay. "The best part of your story is when it changes.". - Bella Bloom Bonus material - a printable PDF chart with link words (always keep it ...
How to Use Paragraph Transitions to Strengthen Your Writing
An important part of essay writing is learning how to effectively employ paragraph transitions—shifting from one paragraph or idea to the next. Learning to effectively use the different types of transitions will help you write more cohesive pieces and improve the clarity of your writing.
Transition Words for Essays
Sequence/Order Transition Words for Essays. Sequence words are especially important in narrative essays, where you must guide your reader through the events of your story. Sequence words can be used at the start of each paragraph to clearly mark out what happened first, next and so on. In addition, you can also use sequence transition words for ...
30 Topic Sentence Examples
What is an essay without a topic sentence? Well, confusion. In your writing, the topic sentence introduces what the paragraph will be about. It should cover the topic of the paragraph and the prime focus of what you want to discuss in the next several lines. And it can assist in smoothly transitioning into the next paragraph, the next point you're about to make.
Mastering Conclusion Transitions Words and Phrases
It also guides the reader through your essay. Additionally, using transition words between body paragraphs creates a good flow from one to another. This makes your writing more cohesive and easy to follow. By building your essay with transition words, you can improve the overall quality of writing. It also helps engage your audience more ...

33 Transition Words and Phrases

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Example text with and without transition words

Don’t overuse transition words

Check for common mistakes

Additive transition words

Adversative transition words

Causal transition words

Sequential transition words

Confused use of therefore

Starting a sentence with also , and , or so

Transition words creating sentence fragments

And vs. as well as

Use of and/or

Archaic transition words

Using a paraphrasing tool for clear writing

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220 Best Transition Words for Essays

What Are Transition Words

Why Should You Use Transitions

Types of Transitions

Additive Transitions

Adversative Transitions

Causal Transitions

Sequential Transitions

Comparative Transitions

List of Good Transition Words for Essays

Transition Words for Argumentative Essays

Transition Words for Compare and Contrast Essays

Transition Words for Cause and Effect Essays

Transition Words for Different Parts of Essays

Introduction Transition Words for Essays

Transition Words for Essays Body Paragraph

Transition Words for Essays for First Body Paragraph

Transition Words for Essays Second Body Paragraph

Transition Words for Essays Third Body Paragraph

Transition Words for Essays Last Body Paragraph

Transition Words for Essays Conclusion

Do’s and Don’ts of Using Essay Transitions

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Transition Words for Essays - An Ultimate List

What are Transition Words?

Types of Transitions

Types of Transition Words

Transition Words For Different Types of Essays

Transition Words for Argumentative Essay

Transition Words for Compare and Contrast Essay

Transition Words for Informative Essay

Transition Words for College Essays

Transition Words for Cause and Effect Essay

Transition Words for Expository Essay

Transition Words for Different Parts of Essay

How Transitions work

Tips to Use Transition Words in your Essay

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Complete List of Transition Words

Additive Transitions

Example Additive Transition

Adversative Transitions

Example Adversative Transition

Causal Transitions

Example Causal Transition

Sequential Transitions

Example Sequential Transition

How to Practice Using Transition Words

Boost Your English Writing with These Top Transition Words to Start a Paragraph

Transition Words to Start a Paragraph

Understanding Transition Words

Why are Transition Words Important?

Examples of Transition Words

Importance of Transition Words in Writing

Flow of Writing